Your First Appointment
We want to make your first visit a smooth, comfortable experience.
Several days before your appointment, you will receive a packet of information with more details about where we’re located, what to expect, and what you need to bring with you. Easy directions and a map will help guide your route to our proton treatment center. If you are traveling from out of town, our patient support services staff can help you arrange travel, book lodging, and transportation.
Please arrive about 30-40 minutes early to complete routine paperwork. You may also complete most forms in advance and bring them with you if you prefer.
Initial Consultation
Your first appointment will be a consultation. Prior to your visit, a member of our care team will call to discuss what to expect and what you need to bring. We will let you know if we need to collect additional medical records, lab work, or imaging reports before you arrive.
This first visit will be comprehensive, so plan to spend a full day with us (sometimes longer depending on what is needed for your particular care). Your appointment may include:
- A physical exam performed by your physician.
- Additional testing to help us outline your treatment plan.
- Meeting with a financial counselor to discuss your insurance coverage benefits.
- Meeting with patient support service representatives.
Your proton therapy treatment will likely not begin at your first appointment. We will allow ample time to answer questions and to discuss next steps. We encourage you to bring a family member or friend to your appointment to join in the discussion. They may hear something you missed, think of different questions to ask, or help take notes.
First Proton Therapy Treatment
Your physician and nursing staff will provide instructions for you to prepare for your first proton therapy treatment. Timing and duration varies depending on the patient and type of cancer. A typical cycle includes daily treatments, Monday through Friday, for six to nine weeks.
Our patient support services staff can assist you with personal needs while you are here, including accommodating children and schoolwork to other family members and pets.