What should I bring to my first oncology appointment for Lung Cancer

What to Bring to Your First Lung Cancer Oncology Appointment

Your first oncology appointment is an important step in your care. Here's what you should prepare to bring:

Essential [ID removed] & Documents

Imaging and Test Results:

• All CT scans, PET/CT scans, X-rays, and any other imaging studies (on CD or in digital format if possible)
• Pathology reports if you've had a biopsy
• Blood test results and lab work
• Any other diagnostic test results from the past 60 days (according to NCCN Guidelines, scans older than 60 days may not be used for treatment planning)

Medical History Information:

• A list of all current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, herbs, and supplements) — bring the actual bottles if possible
• Records from your primary care doctor
• Information about any previous surgeries or serious illnesses
• Family health history, especially cancer in close relatives (parents, siblings, grandparents)

Personal Information

Insurance & Identification:

• Insurance card(s)
• Photo ID
• Social Security card

Contact Information:

• Emergency contact names and phone numbers
• List of other doctors you see regularly

Information About Your Health

Symptom & Lifestyle Details: According to NCCN Guidelines for lung cancer evaluation, your care team will ask about:

• Any symptoms you've experienced (cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss)
• Your smoking history (current, former, or never smoker) and when you quit if applicable
• Occupational exposures (chemicals, asbestos, radon)
• Any history of lung disease (COPD, pulmonary fibrosis)
• Alcohol use
• Your activity level and overall fitness

Practical Items

• A notebook and pen to take notes during the appointment
• A list of questions you want to ask (see below for suggested questions)
• Someone to accompany you — bring a trusted family member or friend who can help listen, take notes, and provide support
• Your calendar to schedule follow-up appointments

Questions to Ask at Your First Appointment

According to NCCN Guidelines, here are important questions about your cancer testing and diagnosis:

1. What tests will I need, and what do they show?
2. Will enough tissue be removed for future testing? Where will my tissue be kept?
3. Do the tests have any risks I should know about?
4. What stage is my cancer, and what does that mean?
5. What are my treatment options?
6. What is your recommended treatment plan for my specific situation?
7. What are the benefits and side effects of each treatment option?
8. How soon do we need to start treatment?
9. Can I get copies of my pathology report and all test results?
10. Is there an online patient portal where I can access my results?

Why This Matters

According to NCCN Guidelines for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, your care team will use your complete medical history, physical exam results, and test results to plan your treatment. Your input about your wishes and any challenges you're facing is just as important as the tests themselves. Being prepared helps your team make the best decisions for your care.

Your oncology team typically includes thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists like nurses, social workers, and nutritionists — so having complete information helps everyone work together effectively.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.