What to Expect When Going for an Oncologist for the First Time?

Rohan Mathew

Updated on:

It may take 2 to 3 hours to accomplish the first oncology appointment for you. It is because some time is required by an oncologist to gather details about your overall health. The moment you realize that you have cancer, anger, sadness and anxiety are some of the natural reactions. You may also be shocked initially. 

First of all, the best oncologist in Delhi NCR would recommend a physical exam, even though you’ve already had it before with your doctor. Some additional blood tests or imaging may be required. You may also want to meet other healthcare staff or team members who can help you about the costs and insurance process involved. An oncologist may also give a rough analysis of estimated time for recovery. 

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Questions you should ask with the doctor

You may have plenty of questions in mind but you forget all of them the moment you visit the clinic. Cancer diagnosis causes stress which can easily freeze your mind for a while. So, it is always wise to note down the questions on your phone and keep it handy on your day of appointment. Here’s what you should ask – 

  • What is this treatment for?
  • What we might learn from such tests?
  • What is the success rate of this treatment? 
  • Are there any side effects?
  • What clinical trials may help you?
  • Can I get back to work soon?

Types of Tests done by Oncologists 

An oncologist may conduct a physical test to find the signs of cancer. They may consider urine and blood tests or ultrasounds, MRI, and CT scans. One or more biopsies may be recommended when looking for cancer cells. 

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Training that Oncologists Have 

A 3-year course is mandatory in internal medicine after graduation from a medical college and being a licensed physician. After doing the residency course, there is a medical oncology fellowship for 2 to 3 years that oncologists have to complete. Along with fellowship in surgical oncology, general surgical residency is also required to do for surgical oncologists. It takes 5 years to become a radiation oncology, including internal medicine internship along with residency in radiation oncology.