Our award-winning team at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is transforming how cancers are prevented, detected, treated and cured, and it is our pleasure to care for you and your loved ones. Cancer is complex and its care can be complicated, so we want to make your experience as our patient as simple and positive as possible.
Make an appointment
At VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, you may be referred by your doctor, or you may directly make an appointment for yourself or for a family member. Our appointment coordinators will help you connect with the right specialists.
If you or your doctor has not already done so, please make an appointment now.
Prepare for your first visit
Before your first visit, we will need to have copies of the medical records that are relevant to your diagnosis. These records include lab reports, pathology reports or slides, X-ray films, PET and/or MRI scans and other test results – anything related to the reason for your appointment. Our multidisciplinary teams of specialists review this information before your appointment in order to map out a recommended treatment plan.
Our new patient coordinators will request these records from your referring or current physician who made the diagnosis. You may be asked to assist us in obtaining these records.
What to expect at your first visit
Please plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment.
When you arrive, please check in at the registration desk. If you have questions while you’re waiting to see your health care team, please visit the Information Desk in the main lobby or ask any employee with an ID badge for help. We are here for you.
Your first visit to VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will involve meeting with your health care team. Your health care team includes your doctor, nurses and care partners and, depending on your needs, may also include physical and occupational therapists, psychologists, registered dieticians, pharmacists, social workers and others. Your care team will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, answer any questions you have and discuss next steps with you. You may have lab work done and further testing may be scheduled.
Your first visit may be lengthy, so please plan your schedule accordingly.
Items to bring to your first visit
- Social security number
- Photo ID
- Copay for your visit
- List of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements you are currently taking, including the dosage and frequency
- Information about your health history
- Allergies
- Surgeries
- Chronic illnesses
- Insurance card and prescription card
- Questions about insurance, whether we accept your plan and if you do not have insurance and need financial assistance? Please visit Billing and insurance to learn more.
- Current or referring physician’s name, address and phone number
- List of the questions you have – We recommended this list of questions you can ask to help you better understand your cancer and your options.
- Family member or friend – Your first appointment may be overwhelming. A loved one can help in asking your doctor all of the right questions and in remembering and writing down what is discussed.
- Snack
- Vending machines are available on site
- The hospital cafeteria and several restaurants are also available on the VCU Medical Center campus
- A book or magazine to read or a tablet or laptop to use while you wait (free WiFI available; connect to VCUHS Guest)
- Light jacket or sweater – The waiting areas and exam rooms can be cool
Registering when you arrive for your appointment
When you arrive for your appointment, please stop at the reception desk to register and spend a few minutes reviewing your insurance. You will then be directed to your clinical area or to the lab before seeing your physician.
How to get here
VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center offers several convenient clinical locations in the metro Richmond area as well as in Emporia, Fredericksburg and South Hill. Visit Parking and directions for more information about how to get to each of our care center locations and where to park.
More information
For more details regarding visitor information, dining options, patient and guest accommodations, and more, please click here.
