Your first visit
Most patients have many questions about their first visit to Huntsman Cancer Institute. Here are answers to these commonly asked questions:
What should I expect on my first visit?
When you arrive at the clinic, an outpatient clinical representative (OCR) will greet you, check you in, and collect any co-pays you may have. You will be asked to wait until the medical assistant can record your vital signs and escort you to the exam room.
The first medical provider you meet will either be
a nurse, nurse practitioner, or a resident. That person will explain
his or her role and assist you during your visit. If it’s a nurse
practitioner and or resident, he or she will also review your medical
history, perform a neurological exam, and answer any questions. After
meeting with this medical provider, you will be asked to wait in
the exam room while your care is discussed with the attending physician.
When you meet the attending physician, he or she will
talk about the steps involved in planning your course of treatment.
The physician will answer any questions you may have and provide
you with the most up-to-date answers. You will be able to view your
MRI with the physician, get answers about what the MRI shows, and
learn how the results of your MRI might impact your life and your
care.
At the end of your visit, you will have a clear understanding of the care you will receive at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
What should I bring to my appointment?
It is very important to bring your current and past medical images (MRIs, CTs, etc.) and any other medical records you have. You should also bring the following:
- Insurance card
- List of medications
- List of questions you have for the physician
- Co-pay (if applicable)
What if I have insurance or prior authorizations questions?
Insurance questions
You are responsible for making sure your care is covered by your insurance. You will want to ask your insurance if the hospital is “in-network,” the physician is “in-network,” and if all possible treatments will be covered. If you are concerned about the potential cost of medical bills, we encourage you to contact a Huntsman Cancer Institute financial counselor. This person can assist you in understanding your medical bills and help find financial resources that may reduce costs.
Prior authorization questions
Each clinic or department usually has someone designated to help with prior authorizations. For example, if you have an MRI and radiation treatment scheduled, the radiation department will handle prior authorizations; the MRI department will handle prior authorizations for your MRI.
If you have any additional questions please contact
Robbie Loomis
Phone: (801) 585-0260
E-mail: robbie.loomis@hci.utah.edu
|
