There's a lot to take in when beginning cancer treatment, and absorbing all this new information can start to feel overwhelming. That's why nurse leaders Taylor and Patrick at the Packnett Family Cancer Institute offered to walk us through what your initial appointment might involve, so you know what to expect and can feel a little more comfortable before your first visit.
Arrival
When you arrive at the Cancer Institute, use entrance 12 just off Parkview Circle. Valet services are available to make parking simple and convenient. Once inside, you'll be welcomed by our concierge team, who will guide you to the next step of your visit.
There are many steps to ensure your treatment is safe and personalized. Depending on your care plan, your visit may last several hours or even a full day, depending on the complexity of your treatment.
Introductions
At your first visit, you'll meet our navigation team, nurses, social workers and financial counselors who support you throughout your care. They'll help you understand your treatment plan, answer questions and offer resources tailored to your needs. You'll also have a dedicated education session with a trained healthcare provider—either in person or by phone—to review your treatment plan, what to expect and possible side effects.
Pre-infusion check
Before your treatment begins, your care team may need updated lab results. You'll check in at the third-floor registration desk, where a team member will guide you to the infusion center for lab work. To minimize multiple needle sticks, we combine lab draws with IV or port access when possible to make the process more comfortable and efficient. If your treatment requires a blood draw at our on-site lab, you will need to visit the PFCI lab on the first floor before your other appointments to reduce your wait times.
The labs needed to guide your treatment will be run during your office visit with your provider, so they will be available for review by the time you are ready for your treatment. Your treatment is tailored to fit your needs. Things like your lab results, weight and how you're feeling help your provider determine the safest and most effective dose.
After your office visit, you'll be brought to your infusion bay and introduced to your nurse. You're welcome to bring one visitor over the age of 18 for support. While you're here, you can watch TV, read or bring comfort items like a favorite blanket. We aim to make your space as private and comfortable as possible.
The setup
Our oncology pharmacy team is located right here at PFCI, steps away from your treatment bay. Most chemotherapies and treatment medications are prepared just for you based on your provider's instructions, your current health and treatment plan.
Once your provider finalizes your treatment plan, two oncology pharmacists verify every dose using a comprehensive checklist. They review your latest lab results, weight and any changes in your health to ensure your treatment is safe and appropriate. This careful review helps us adjust your care if needed. Even small changes in how you're feeling can impact how your treatment is given.
Because your treatment is made just for you, safety checks take a little time. While that happens, behind the scenes, your nurse will get started placing your IV and giving any pre-medication, so you're ready when your treatment arrives.
Once two pharmacists approve your treatment, our pharmacy technicians prepare your medication using advanced safety tools, such as barcode scanners, precision scales and cameras that capture every step. They wear special protective gear and work in a sterile space to keep everything clean and safe. When your dose is ready, a pharmacist performs a final check before personally delivering it to the treatment area.
Before your infusion begins, your care team will complete essential safety checks like confirming your treatment orders and scanning your ID band. You may see your nurse wearing gloves, a gown or other protective gear. This is standard for their safety as they handle chemotherapy medications, not only throughout the day, but throughout their entire career. You'll be asked to confirm your name and birth date multiple times because your safety is our top priority.
Final thoughts
We hope this information helps you feel more prepared and at ease for your visit to the Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute. We're honored to walk alongside you, providing care that's safe, compassionate and tailored to your needs.
If you have any questions at any time, please don't hesitate to call us at 1-833-724-8326. We're here for you every step of the way.
Curious about your genetic risk for certain cancers? Learn how your DNA affects your health with DNA Insights, a community health research program by Parkview Health. Learn more at parkview.com/DNAInsights.
