What to Expect at Your Appointment

As a new patient at Duke Cancer Center Cary, you may have questions as you prepare for your first appointment. Our goal is to make your visit as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on what’s important -- your health. The information below provides details on your first visit, including how to prepare, where to go, 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 Cary through GoCary bus route 5 or GoTriangle bus route 305. The closest bus stops are Tryon Rd at Killdaire Farm Rd and Tryon Rd at WakeMed Cary Hospital. If you have trouble accessing these routes, visit GoWake Access or GoTriangle Access to check if you meet the ADA eligibility for accessible transit programs.

Checking In
When you arrive, you will check in and register at the front desk. You will be asked 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.

What to Bring
For your comfort, you are encouraged 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. Bring all medicines, vitamins, and supplements in their original containers, as well as your insurance information. We encourage you to eat, drink, and take any medications before you come for your appointment.

One support person may accompany you to your appointment to participate in the discussion. However, please note that visitor restrictions are in effect. 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.

Your team will include many different health care providers. You will be seen by a cancer specialist who will discuss your diagnosis in detail, treatment options, and next steps. In most cases, subsequent visits are shorter; your team will review your medication and symptoms.

Surgical Oncologists
These cancer specialists evaluate masses and abnormal imaging to start a plan for your cancer treatment. They offer lumpectomy, sentinel node mapping, hidden scar surgery, oncoplastic techniques, and skin and nipple-sparing mastectomies. The surgeon will help set up a plan for your cancer treatment and coordinate with medical and radiation oncology as a team. Surgical consultations and follow up visits take place in the office and surgery will be at the hospital.

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

Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants
Nurse practitioners and physician assistants may 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. You will see the same nursing team at each appointment. This approach gives you a consistent point of contact for questions and concerns that arise outside of the clinic.  A certified medical assistant will help guide you through your clinic visit. They are here to help support your clinical needs during each and every visit.

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 Care Cary.