What to Expect at Your Appointment

If you are a new patient at Duke Cancer Center Southpoint, you may have questions as you prepare for your first consultation or treatment appointment. Our goal is to make your visit as stress-free as possible so you can focus on your health. The information below includes details about your first visit, including how to prepare, what to expect, and who you’ll meet.

Parking
Parking is free and conveniently located just steps from our clinic.

Public Transportation
Plan your trip to Duke Cancer Center at Southpoint through GoDurham bus route 12. The closest bus stop is Herndon Rd at Fayetteville Rd. If you have trouble accessing this route, visit GoDurham Access to check if you meet the ADA eligibility for Durham County’s accessible transit program.

Checking In
When you arrive, you will check-in and register at the front desk. Please be prepared to show your photo ID and insurance cards and pay your required co-pay(s).

Appointment Length 
Your first visit may last several hours. This provides time to complete required lab tests and for your provider to answer your questions. Additional testing may be scheduled for a later date. Subsequent visits are usually shorter.

What to Bring 
Bring your medicines, vitamins, and supplements in their original containers, as well as your insurance information. 

You may also want to bring a sweater or light jacket, reading material, a laptop or mobile device, and a pen and paper to take notes. 

Free wireless internet service is available throughout the building. You're welcome to bring a snack or beverage. 

A support person may accompany you to your appointment to take part in discussions. They may hear something you missed, think of different questions to ask, or assist by taking notes. Additional family members may join your appointment via phone or video. 

Please review our visitor guidelines.

Imaging and Lab Work
You may visit our clinic to undergo the following tests: 

• Blood tests
• Screening 3D mammograms
• Ultrasounds
• Visual cystoscopy to look inside the bladder and urethra

Your team will include different healthcare providers. A cancer specialist will discuss the details of your diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps.  After a nurse reviews your medication and symptoms, you will see your cancer specialist, a nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant who works with your cancer specialist. These are some of the providers you will may see during your appointments.

Surgical Oncologist
These cancer surgeons evaluate masses and abnormal imaging to start a plan for your cancer treatment. The surgeon will help set up the plan for your cancer treatment and coordinate with medical and radiation oncologists. Surgical consultations and follow-up visits take place in the office. If you need surgery, it will take place at a Duke hospital. Radiation therapy may take place at another Duke Cancer Center location.

Medical Oncologist
These doctors manage chemotherapy, immunotherapies, and targeted treatments when they are part of your cancer treatment plan.

Palliative Care Specialist
Palliative care is available to meet the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of you and your loved ones.

Oncology Nurse Navigator
A nurse navigator identifies barriers to care and connects you with resources. They ensure you have the information you need to make decisions and advocate for yourself. If you are interested in learning more, contact your healthcare team and ask what navigation services are available to you. 

Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants will participate in your cancer care throughout your journey, from your first consultation and helping you manage your symptoms, to when you are ready for long-term follow-up.

Registered Nurses and Certified Medical Assistants
A registered nurse will educate you and your family about your cancer and planned treatments. At each appointment, you will see the same nursing team. This approach gives you a consistent point of contact for questions and concerns that occur outside of the clinic. A certified medical assistant will help guide you through your clinic visit. Both roles are meant to support your clinical needs during every visit.

Genetic Counselors
A genetic counselor can explain and recommend genetic testing to determine your cancer risk. If you have a cancer diagnosis, knowing whether this is an inherited cancer can direct your treatment decisions. It may also affect your loved ones’ health in the future.

Other Team Members
You may also interact with family therapists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers, and other cancer-specific caregivers who support you during your cancer treatment. You may see a medical resident or fellow pursuing specialty training. They work closely with other members of your healthcare team. A financial care counselor can answer questions about billing and insurance.

It is possible that some follow-up visits may be virtual, including appointments after your surgery. This means you will meet with your cancer specialist using video on a computer or mobile device with a camera. This appointment may be with a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or doctor. Typically, these appointments are for follow-up care or for people who live far from Duke Cancer Center Southpoint.