Medical Oncology at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
Have you or someone you care about been diagnosed with cancer?
You are not alone! At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, our medical oncology team is here to provide you with expert care and support.
From the moment of diagnosis we are committed to helping you through every stage of treatment.
If you're looking for clear answers, personalized treatment plans, or compassionate care, our medical oncology team is here to help.
How Can Our Medical Oncology Team Support You?
Medical oncologists are experts in diagnosing and treating cancer using a systemic approach including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or immunotherapy.
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we work with you and collaborate as a team with other physicians to create the most effective treatment plan, answering your questions and listening to your needs.
What Cancer Treatments Are Offered at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center?
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we provide a full range of advanced medical oncology services as part of our approach to cancer care.
Based on your type and stage of cancer, our medical oncologist may suggest one or more of these treatment options:
- Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or keep them from spreading.
- Hormone therapy uses medications to block the production of hormones and/or their effect on the growth and development of cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy acts on the patient's own immune system to recognize and attack tumor cells.
- Targeted therapy uses drugs that act specifically on certain targets on tumor cells, recognizing and destroying them with less harmful effect on surrounding healthy cells.
In many cases, the most effective treatment plan involves a combination of different therapies. We will tailor a treatment plan to your specific disease, general health, and unique goals, to cover all aspects of your care.
What to Expect at Your First Medical Oncology Appointment
When you visit UPMC Hillman Cancer Center for the first time, staff will ensure you are comfortable and prepared for your appointment.
New patient visits can last a several hours and may involve conversations with your doctor as well as additional tests that are needed.
Before your first visit, make sure to gather the following information:
- Lab results and radiology images.
- A list of your current medications.
- Medical records from other doctors.
- Pathology slides and written reports.
- A list of questions to ask your doctor.
When you first arrive at your appointment, you will sign in at the front desk, verify your information, and complete any additional paperwork. A staff member will likely take your height, weight, and blood pressure.
Once you are in an exam room, your oncologist will review your medical history, perform any additional physical exams, tests, or lab work needed, and discuss your potential cancer treatment options.
During this appointment, you will want to ask questions and take notes.
Make sure you fully understand your next steps and/or recommended treatment plan before leaving your appointment.
Questions to Ask During Your First Appointment
Here are some suggested topics you may wish to discuss with your medical oncologist. It’s not necessary to cover everything but rather focus on the topics that are most important to you.
- Tell me about the type, location, and stage of my cancer.
- Explain the stage of my cancer diagnosis.
- What is my specific cancer prognosis?
- How serious is my cancer?
- What may have caused my cancer?
- What are my treatment options?
- What can I expect during treatment?
- How long will treatment last?
- How soon do I need to start treatment?
- What should I do to be ready for treatment?
- What other tests will I need?
- How and when will I get the results?
- What other specialists will I need to see for additional treatment?
- What’s the goal of my treatment? Will it remove the cancer?
- Will my body or health change during or after treatment?
- What side effects can I expect from my treatment?
- What can I do to manage side effects?
- Should I make any nutritional changes during or after treatment?
- How physically active should I be during treatment?
- Can I travel during treatment?
- How else will treatment affect my daily life such as intimacy?
Why Choose UPMC Hillman Cancer Center for Medical Oncology
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we provide trusted and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach. Our team of experts, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
As part of the UPMC Hillman global network, our medical teams in Croatia and the U.S. work closely together to determine the best course of treatment and care for each patient. This partnership makes it possible for you to receive world-class cancer care close to home.
Expert Cancer Care and Treatment Options
In addition to medical oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers other services to support your cancer journey, including:
Contact Us About Medical Oncology Services at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
If you are seeking medical oncology services for your cancer diagnosis, our experienced team is ready to help.
Contact UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to schedule your appointment or request a consultation.
Phone: +385 (0)49 638 710
Email: info@upmc.hr
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center brings world-class cancer care closer to home.