FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to go to a big city hospital or cancer center to get the
latest in cancer care?
Columbia Basin Hematology and Oncology, located at the Tri-Cities
Cancer Center, can provide the vast majority of the most up-to-date treatments,
including clinical trials, right here in the Tri-Cities. There is no need
to travel far away…we are able to provide cutting edge care in a warm,
personalized, and accessible community setting.
2. Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, and we do our best to see new patients as soon as possible.
Every effort is made to schedule your consultation within 8-10 working
days.
3. How do I make an appointment?
Once you have a diagnosis of cancer, your surgeon, primary care
physician or other provider can contact our office and make a referral.
Due to the specialized care we offer and the complexity of the disease
processes we treat, we are unable to accept self referrals at this time.
4. What can I expect at my first appointment?
a. If you have a computer, you will want to access the New
Patient Packet, print and fill out the appropriate forms. If you do not have
computer access, a packet will be mailed to you. Please make sure you
have completed all forms and have them ready for the receptionist when
you arrive.
b. The doctors often require additional blood tests prior to
your first visit. If you receive instructions to have lab work drawn before
your appointment, please allow a minimum of 1 hour between your lab draw
and your Oncology appointment.
c. Your consultation will typically last at least one hour. During
this time, your doctor will review your medical history, current diagnosis,
treatment options, and initial plan of care. There is often a physical
exam that takes place as well.
d. You will have time to ask questions and discuss any concerns
with your physician. For your convenience, we suggest you write down your
questions before your visit so that you will remember them during the
conversation.
5. What types of treatment do you do?
Each patient is assessed on an individual basis. A range of options
are available in the form of chemotherapy, biotherapy, clinical trials,
or a combination of these. We also work in close collaboration with
the Radiation Oncologists located at the Tri-Cities Cancer Center should
your treatment option include their services. Curing our patients is
of course our primary goal, but should a cure be impossible, we offer
support and compassionate care enhancing both the length and quality
of life for most patients.
6. Who will be taking care of me?
At CBHO, we utilize a multidisciplinary approach to your cancer
care. Your healthcare team will consist of a physician, a mid-level
practitioner (Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant), highly trained
Registered Nurses, and other support personnel. The strength of our
approach is a team committed to patient expectations and needs throughout
the course of your treatment experience and beyond.
7. Will my insurance plan pay for treatment?
Your insurance policy is a contract, or agreement, between you
and the insurance company. We are not a party to that contract. We will
bill your insurance plan for you, as long as you provide us with the
most accurate and current information. If we do not have any agreement
with your insurance company, some or all of the services may not be
covered. This may mean that a portion of your treatment will take place
at a local hospital. You, as the patient, are ultimately responsible
for payment of all services provided by our office. Our Patient Account
billing specialists are available to assist with any questions you may
have regarding your insurance or your CBHO account. They can be reached
at 509-783-7445.
Kennewick, WA 99336
(509)783-4637
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