Becoming a patient

Treatment OptionsThe June E. Nylen Cancer Center provides comprehensive outpatient cancer treatment to patients from the tri-state area.  The three primary methods to treat cancer are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.  At the cancer center, we provide state-of-the-art radiation and 3D treatment planning, the newest types of chemotherapy available and clinical trials.   Many patients receive a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy during the course of their treatment.Support ServicesNutritional care, spiritual care, educational services, wig boutique, and complementary therapies such as massage, acupuncture, guided imagery.  Information regarding support services is available in the resource room as well as in the lobby.Complementary TherapyAt the cancer center we offer various supportive therapies that a patient may choose to use in addition to their medical treatment.  These therapies are often referred to as complementary therapies.    At the cancer center a licensed massage therapist and a licensed acupuncture provider are available to help patients reduce their stress as well s better manage the side effects from cancer treatment.   A certified clinical herbalist is ready to answer questions regarding any vitamins or herbs.  Some herbs and vitamins have been shown to help with side effects while others have been shown to interfere with cancer treatment.   It is very important to let your physician know if you are taking any time of herb or supplement.    Spiritual and emotional care are important aspects of cancer treatment and survival.   You may request to see our chaplain who will respect your religious preferences and meet with you and your family as needed.   Patients may request any of these services during their appointment with their physician or by asking for assistance from the receptionist.How Do You Become Our Patient?Patients are usually referred to the cancer center by their family physician or a surgeon once a diagnosis of cancer is suspected.  Many patients will meet their medical or radiation oncologist for the first time while they are in the hospital while others will meet them at their first visit to the cancer center.The first time you visit the cancer center, please check in with the receptionist.   The receptionist will have a list of the tests that need to be completed, if any.  You may have an x-ray or CT.  You may have lab work completed.   These services are available at the cancer center for your convenience.  You will wait in the front lobby while the lab work is processed.  While you are in the lobby you may meet one of our lobby volunteers who may offer you refreshments, reading materials or blankets if you are chilly.  You also may meet our Chaplain or Patient Navigator who often circulate through the lobby and are available to provide emotional support and answer general questions about the cancer center.Once the lab results are available – usually within an hour, you will be called back to the clinic area.  A nurse will complete an assessment that typically includes your blood pressure and heart rate.  Then you will meet with your physician.  At that time you will discuss treatment options and plans.  We encourage you to ask questions and take notes so that you can refer back to them between visits.   Patients often feel overwhelmed with their diagnosis and the vast amount of information they are receiving.   Many patients find it helpful to bring a spouse, family member or friend to each visit to help take notes, ask questions and help provide emotional supports as well.  The first visit may last a few hours depending upon the testing required.Clinical trialsSome patients may be eligible for a clinical trial.   Clinical trials or protocols offer patients additional treatment options.   If your physician believes a clinical trial may be a good option, he will discuss the trial with you.  Please refer to the clinical trials and research information on the website for more information.At the end of the appointment you will receive information for your ongoing care and your next appointment.  At any point during your care, you may ask your physician, nurse or the receptionist if you would like to see a dietician, the chaplain, a social worker or the patient navigator.  Support groups are available for you as well as your family or caregivers.  Just ask for information at the front desk.