Usually, the first visit to a medical oncologist may last two to three hours. The patient can expect the following during the visit.
People commonly feel anxiety, anger, sadness or a curious lack of it when they find out that they have cancer. They may possibly feel a numb sense of shock initially.
The oncologist will perform a physical exam even though the patient already had it from their primary care doctor.
Additional tests like blood work or imaging tests may be advised.
The patient is allowed to meet other cancer care team members as well as healthcare professionals who can explain the insurance process and costs involved in treatment.
The oncologist will also give a basic prediction of how long the recovery process will take.