Skip to Main Content

Coming to the Cancer Centre for the first time might feel scary. It's normal to feel anxious or nervous before your first visit.

When you get here, know that there will be volunteers and staff ready to greet you and help you find your way. You can ask for help at any time.

A volunteer holds the door to the Centre Centre open with a big smile on their face.

Types of Appointments

Consult

  • A first visit with Health Care Provider (HCP): doctor, pharmacist, dietitian etc.
  • They will ask you questions about your medical history, symptoms & Concerns.
  • The HCP will give you information and create a plan with you.

Follow-Up

  • Visit your HCP to go over how you are doing after you had your 1st consult.
  • This might take place after you start a new medication, treatment or care plan.
  • You will have a chance to ask more questions or address concerns.

Lab

  • These appointments are to get your blood work done.
  • Blood work can help your HCPs monitor your health and response to treatments.
  • Results are sent to the doctor who ordered your blood work.

Treatment

  • Appointments will be in person if you are getting radiation, systemic therapy or other physical services (e.g., IV treatments, fluids, or medicine).
  • You will often be booked in advance for these visits. They will show up on your itinerary.

In Person Appointments

You will need a referral to be seen by our cancer team. You may have been referred by your family doctor or another specialist. Based on your referral information, symptoms, and test results you may be contacted to book an appointment at the cancer centre. Our clerical staff will call you to book your visit and give you more information.

You can view your appointments online through My Connected Care. You may also get a printed copy of your appointments, call your “patient itinerary”.

Virtual Appointments

There are some situations where you may be booked for a virtual appointment. The WWRCP uses the Ontario Telehealth Network (OTN) to provide safe, secure, virtual care. Virtual visits or follow-ups will show up on your patient itinerary.

A tool to help manage your symptoms

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your in person visit. This will give you time to register and fill out Your Symptoms Matter.

You can also fill it out online 24 hours before your visit.

Two Waterloo Regional Health Network professionals at the desk

Where Is My First Appointment?

Your First Appointment will be booked at either:

Two patients sitting at registration desks.

WRHN Cancer Centre @Midtown

When you arrive, enter through the cancer centre doors. For your first appointment you will check in at the main registration desk to your left. Volunteers will greet you and help get you ready to check-in. In the future you may be asked to check-in at the "chemosuite" desk (4th floor) or radiation desk (3rd floor).

A receptionist behind a counter smiles and accepts a card from a woman standing on the other side.

Cambridge Memorial Hospital

Both of these locations have medical oncologists and radiation oncologists on staff to support your cancer care. The location of your first appointment is often based on where you live and/or the type of cancer you have (certain oncologists treat certain types of cancer).

What to Bring To Your First Visit

  1. Health Card
  2. Details about your health history (like information about past health conditions, specialists you see, or past surgery you have had)
  3. Name and address of your family doctor
  4. Your prescription drugs (medicines), vitamins, or supplements – bring a detailed list that includes the name, dose, and when you take them OR bring the bottles/boxes with you.
  5. Your drug insurance card, if you have one
  6. A friend, family member, or care partner
  7. Something to help you take notes
  8. Something to help you pass the time (like a book, tablet, phone, or magazine)
  9. A drink, snack, or small meal
  10. A list of your questions for the healthcare team

What to Expect In Appointments

Commons Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team

Below are some common questions you might have about your cancer, treatment, or care plan. At the start of your appointment, let your healthcare team know what is most important for you to know that day.

  • Do I have cancer?
  • What type of cancer do I have? Where did it start?
  • What is the grade and stage of my cancer? What does this mean for my treatment plan?
  • Is my cancer curable or controllable (not-curable)?
  • Has my cancer spread anywhere? Where?
  • What is my treatment plan? When do I get treatment? How do I get it? How long will it last?
  • What are the most common side effects of my cancer treatment?
  • What can I do to prepare for my treatment?
  • Who can I talk to about things that are on my mind (fears, concerns, hopes)?
  • Who can I talk to for help with finances, stress, anxiety, or depression?

Health and Safety

Help prevent the spread of infection by:

  • Wearing a mask if you are sick
  • Cleaning your hands using an alcohol based hand sanitizer
  • Washing your hands regularly

Hand sanitizer and masks are available around the hospital, cancer centre, and at main entrances.

 

Many people can be sensitive to smells, especially when in smaller rooms or spaces in the hospital. When you come to the cancer centre please don’t wear any products with strong scents (like perfume, cologne, creams, or hair products).