You may be a bit apprehensive about coming to the hospital for cancer diagnosis or treatment. It often helps to have a family member or friend accompany you. They can lend moral support, assist you in asking questions during your consultation, and help you make decisions about your health care and treatment plan.

Following is a list of items you may want to bring to your initial visit:

• Appointment information and materials you received in your orientation packet
• Health insurance information including your insurance card, special forms, referrals, and important phone numbers
• Contact information of where you will be staying, if you are traveling from out of town
• Any additional medical records not already sent prior to your visit
• A list of your physicians including names, addresses, and telephone numbers
• A list of medications you are currently taking along with prescribed dosages
• A pen and notebook to take notes, store any new paperwork and/or educational materials collected during your visit, and to keep a list of questions you want to ask your physician
• Books, magazines, crossword puzzles, sewing, or other items to help pass the time