Here are some questions to ask when scheduling an appointment.

• What is the exact location of the office (including floor, room, or suite number)?
  
  
• Where should I park? Is there a charge for parking?
  
  
• What entrance do I need to use?
  
  
• What is the best telephone number to contact the office?
  
  
• What is the doctor's full name and title?
  
  
• What is the cancellation policy for appointments?
  
  
• What insurance plans does the doctor participate in?
  
  
• Will the office bill my insurance company, or is full payment expected at the time of the visit?
  
  
• What does the doctor expect me to bring when I come to my appointment?
  
  
  • Insurance cards
    
    
  • Surgical reports
    
    
  • X-ray/scan results and or films
    
    
  • Blood test results
    
    
  • Contact information for other doctors I have seen
    
    
  • Pathology reports
    
    
  • Specimen slides
    
    
  • Other
• Can my family member(s) or friend(s) be present during the visit?
  
  
• How long does a first visit usually take?
  
  
• What support staff does the doctor have available?
  
  
  • Oncology nurses
    
    
  • Social workers
    
    
  • Nutritionists/Registered dietitians
    
    
  • Counselors
    
    
  • Genetic counselors
• Can I bring a tape recorder?

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Managing Your Care