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How to get here
The Radiation Oncology Department is here to provide you with compassionate, quality care that supports you and your family. We’re here to help you in any way we can, so please feel free to contact us with questions or concerns. Your medical team will be happy to assist you.
What to expect during your treatment
Consultation Visit
Your radiation oncologist will examine you and review your medical chart, x-rays, CT scan, and laboratory tests. He or she can then decide whether you should receive radiation therapy and, if so, what type is best for you. If you need radiation therapy, the radiation oncologist will discuss the benefits of treatment and any possible side effects.
Planning - Simulation Visit
This appointment, sometimes called a treatment planning CT or simulation prepares you for your radiation treatment. After this process is complete, a permanent reference mark will be made on your skin and you will be scheduled for your future treatment visits.
Using the information gained from the planning session, your radiation oncologist and other members of your care team will plan your treatment. This process may take up to two weeks.
RN Education Visit
Prior to the simulation you will be scheduled for a 30 minutes meeting with the RN to review information pertinent to your treatment and answer any questions you may have.
Pretreatment check visit
During this appointment, we will verify your treatment by taking X-rays. This visit is usually scheduled for 30 minutes. Your first radiation treatment may be given at this time or on your next scheduled visit.
Schedule
Most treatments are scheduled for 15 minutes. But please allow 30 minutes for each appointment to give time for undressing and dressing.
Physician Visits
A physician will see you every week to check your progress. A nurse is available every day of your treatment to address questions and concerns.
Medication
Be sure to inform your radiation oncologist of all the medications you are taking, including prescription medicines, aspirin, laxatives, cold remedies, vitamins, herbs, or other over the counter medications. Check with your radiation oncologist before taking any new medicines during your treatment.
Completion
Instructions are given by your nurse for skin care and a follow up telephone advice visit (TAV) with a nurse will be scheduled. This is a phone visit so you do not need to return to the department
Radiation effects gradually improve after treatment ends. Avoid sun exposure to areas treated. If you feel tired, rest as much as possible. It’s very important to eat properly throughout your treatment to maintain your weight and strength. Don’t use this time to try to lose weight.
For more information about your condition and treatment, please go to your physician’s Web site at kp.org/mydoctor. You can also contact the Health Education Department at your Kaiser Permanente Medical Center.
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