In order to provide you with the most appropriate and effective cancer care, it is important that we understand your medical history and the nature of the previous care you have received. Please bring the following items to your first appointment:
Medical Records: Please arrange to have your previous test results and reports provided to us. Some doctors and clinics can directly send them to us on your behalf. Others will give these records to you so that you can bring them on your first visit. Examples of medical records include:
Your actual diagnostic films and related reports including x-ray, CT, or other tests ordered by your physician(s). These films and reports can be obtained from the radiology department at the facility where your tests were taken.
If you have already been diagnosed with cancer, a pathologist has probably made a diagnosis by reviewing a biopsy or tumor specimen under a microscope. Please make sure that we receive the relevant written reports. You can obtain these reports from the pathology department at the medical facility where your biopsy was performed.
Referring Physician Information: It is critical for your Texas Oncology oncologist to communicate directly with your primary care and/or referring physician(s). This allows information to be shared in order to determine the best treatment for your disease. Please bring any authorizations and referrals with you, and be sure to have with you the contact information for your other doctors.
Your Texas Oncology medical team may send copies of your test results and reports to your other doctor(s) and/or follow-up with them for collaboration on your condition and treatment plan.
Insurance and I.D. Cards: Please bring your insurance card and driver's license or picture I.D. If your insurance company requires that you have a referral for your first visit, please make sure that your referring doctor has done so.
We will quickly verify your insurance coverage and benefits and let you know of any out-of-pocket expenses you will incur at the time of the visit. If we cannot validate your referral or insurance coverage prior to your first appointment, we may need to reschedule your appointment or you may be financially responsible for your visit.
We will file your insurance claims on your behalf and help you with questions or concerns regarding payment of your bill.
If you would like to speak with our financial counselors about questions or concerns regarding your insurance coverage or bill, please don't hesitate to ask for a consultation.
Questions and Concerns: On your first visit, you may find it helpful to bring a written list of questions to review with your physician. We will allow whatever time is necessary to answer all of your questions and for consultation about your condition and treatment plan.
Forms: Please bring all completed forms as listed under Forms.
New Patient & Family History Form: On your first appointment, you will be asked to complete a New Patient & Family History questionnaire. You can save time on your first visit by printing and completing this form and bringing it with you. You will also be asked to complete the New Patient Pain & Fatigue Assessment form.
Medications: Please bring a complete, up-to-date list of all medications you take or bring the bottles and packages with you, or you can bring your completed Medication & Allergy List form.