What to Expect
Learn more about what to expect during your first visit to the Gynecologic Oncologist at Singing River Cancer Center.
Your first visit with a Gynecologic Oncologist will be in the form of a Consultation.
Before the Appointment
If you were referred by your physician or health care provider, they will have generally faxed any necessary records. If you have had imaging done, such as a CT Scan, you may consider calling ahead to make sure we can access the images. If not, we may ask you to pick up a copy of the images on a computer disc so that we can see them during your visit. You are encouraged to bring a family member, companion, or friend with you for support.
When You Arrive at the Cancer Center
First, you will be greeted by our front desk staff who will obtain some basic information from you. The Gynecologic Oncology Nurse will then meet with you in an exam room in order to have a discussion with you about the visit. They will also obtain some medical history information including family history.
If you take any prescription medicines, please bring a list with the medicine name, dosage, and frequency taken. All of this information is then entered into your electronic health record.
Meeting with Dr. Finan
After you finish meeting with the nurse, you will meet Dr. Finan. Together, you will have a discussion about your visit and go over your medical history. He will explain the next steps, which generally include a pelvic exam.
Pelvic Exams
At this point, if you did come with a family member, spouse, friend, or companion, you may ask them to stay during the exam. Or, in many cases, they may feel more comfortable waiting in an adjacent room during the exam. That decision is up to you.
Once you meet with Dr. Finan, you will have time to use the restroom if necessary and change in order to undergo a pelvic exam if needed. Not all patients need an exam, but the majority do.
After the Exam
After the exam you will have time to freshen up and get dressed. Then, you will sit down with Dr. Finan to discuss the findings and a plan going forward. If surgery is indicated, this will be discussed.
Dr. Finan and his staff will make sure that you have all of your questions answered. You will have time to ask questions and no question is too small, please feel free to bring a list of questions. After the discussion you should have all the information that you need to make an informed decision about next steps.