Diagnosed with Lung Cancer: Now What?
A new lung cancer diagnosis comes with many questions about what happens next. The Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY cancer care team understands your concerns and is here to guide you through the entire cancer treatment process from diagnosis to survivorship.
Your First Steps After a Lung Cancer Diagnosis:
Consulting with the Oncology Team
Most lung cancer patients receive a diagnosis from their primary care physician or a pulmonologist (lung specialist). The next step is to meet with an oncologist – a doctor who specializes in cancer treatment.
For lung cancer, a medical oncologist is typically the primary point of contact. This physician coordinates with the other medical professionals who are part of the multidisciplinary treatment team and oversees any drug therapies used in the treatment process.
At Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY (HOA), you will benefit from a comprehensive approach, including one of our experienced medical oncologists, a thoracic surgeon, a radiation oncologist, an oncology nurse, and a board-certified pulmonologist. The care team meets to review the patient’s diagnosis and creates a personalized plan based on the stage, biomarker test results, and location of the cancer in the lungs or other areas of the body. The plan is then discussed with the patient to be sure they understand what is recommended.
HOA is dedicated to delivering compassionate lung cancer care using the latest technology and treatments. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with lung cancer, request an appointment for a consultation with one of our oncologists located in the Syracuse area, serving the Central New York region.
What is the Extent of My Lung Cancer?
After a biopsy confirms the presence of lung cancer and its type is determined, the oncologist will assess the stage, or extent, of the tumor. Staging lung cancer uses chest images to identify the size and location of the tumors. Other imaging techniques, such as a PET scan, are used to determine whether the cancer has spread. This information helps the oncologist choose the most effective treatment options.
At HOA, our lung cancer specialists evaluate each patient's individual diagnosis in order to recommend a personalized treatment plan.
How Are the Best Lung Cancer Treatments Selected?
The recommended lung cancer treatment plan is influenced by several factors, including the type of lung cancer, its stage, and the patient's overall health. At HOA, our lung cancer specialists work together to make sure each patient receives the most appropriate treatments based on their specific condition. Treatment for lung cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and participation in clinical trials. Our lung cancer team is dedicated to helping patients fully understand their treatment options.
With multiple locations throughout Central New York, patients can conveniently receive their lung cancer treatment close to home. Patients in and around Central and Upstate New York receiving bispecific antibody therapy can be treated on an outpatient basis at HOA. This approach differs from other cancer centers in the region, which typically require an overnight hospital stay.
Additionally, Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY provides infusion services for lung cancer patients in Syracuse who needintravenous (IV) medications. Learn more about our oncology-certified infusion nurses and infusion room amenities.
Available Clinical Trials for Lung Cancer
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is actively involved in research studies that help find more effective ways to treat cancer. Our patients have access to the latest lung cancer clinical trials at several convenient locations. If you are eligible, your oncologist will discuss the possibility of participating in a clinical trial as part of your treatment plan.
Getting a Second Opinion Before Starting Treatment
Every patient should feel confident about their diagnosis and treatment options for lung cancer. Often, this involves seeking a second opinion before beginning a recommended treatment plan. At HOA, our lung cancer doctors provide second opinions for lung cancer treatment. Second opinions are typically covered by insurance; however, patients should contact their health benefits provider directly to confirm before scheduling an appointment.
Preparing for the First Oncology Appointment
Your oncologist will provide a great deal of important information during your first oncology appointment. Bringing a friend or family member to your first visit can be very helpful, as they can assist with listening and taking notes.
To better manage the information you receive, we recommend jotting down notes in a notebook and keeping paperwork organized in a folder. Some patients may prefer a digital option, such as the notes feature on a smartphone.
It’s best to start your note-taking upon diagnosis rather than waiting until your first appointment. Keep track of any questions you or your family members may have, a list of medications or supplements you take and when, important dates, and symptoms you are feeling. This information is important for your lung cancer care team to be aware of.
Learn about what to expect at your first oncology visit with HOA.
Questions to Ask Your Lung Cancer Doctor
Here are some questions to consider asking your oncologist during your first lung cancer appointment:
- What side effects can I expect from treatment and the cancer itself?
- Are there medications that can help with nicotine cravings? What about any smoking cessation programs?
- Do I need to see the oncologist for all aspects of my cancer care, or are there things my primary care physician can handle?
- Are there any activities I should avoid? Are there activities that should be included in my routine?
- What foods are best to eat and drink while going through lung cancer treatment?
- Is participating in a clinical trial an option for me?
- Do I have access to supportive care, such as support groups or counseling?
- What resources does HOA offer to support me as a patient?
Choosing HOA for Lung Cancer Care
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY (HOA) provides expert and comprehensive care for 70% of adult cancer patients in Central New York. We offer comprehensive lung cancer care options, including advanced diagnostic imaging, an in-house pharmacy and laboratory, and access to the most advanced treatment options, as well as participation in lung cancer clinical research trials. Our multidisciplinary approach also extends to a survivorship program, providing ongoing support after treatment is complete. We have several convenient centers located throughout Central New York.
Find a Lung Cancer Specialist in Central New York
At Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY, we bring together the right medical experts to discuss and plan the most effective treatment for each patient. As a physician-owned organization, we provide the most advanced cancer treatments close to home for our patients and their loved ones. From diagnosis through treatment and survivorship, HOA is dedicated to providing compassionate and comfortable, patient-centered care for lung cancer in a convenient, community-based environment.
Our cancer centers are located in East Syracuse, Auburn, and Camillus, NY. We provide care for lung cancer patients in Onondaga County, Cayuga County, Jefferson County (including Watertown), Madison County (including Oneida), Oneida County (including Utica and Verona), and throughout Oswego County (including Oswego and Fulton).
