Patient & Family Resources

Breast Center

The breast cancer care you need.
The support you deserve.

We understand the lingering effects that a breast cancer diagnosis can have on your emotional well-being, your finances, and your relationships with family and friends.

Our team is here to help you through all of the challenges that come with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Learn more about our patient support services

 

Preparing For Your First Appointment

As a new patient at the Rochester Regional Health Breast Center and Lipson Cancer Institute, we want you to feel comfortable, cared for, and informed. Our goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive breast cancer care and help guide you through the entire process.

Your first appointment will be comprehensive, so you should plan to spend an hour or two with us. The Breast Center will help compile the following information from your previous providers ahead of your first appointment:

  • Results from tests that your doctor ordered, including lab reports
  • Copies of scans, x-rays, MRIs, CTs, or other imaging tests that were done
  • Pathology slides if a biopsy was performed

You will also receive a call prior to your appointment to walk through your medical history and list of medications. If you have MyCare, you may also see holds placed for additional appointments. These will be discussed and adjusted as necessary at your initial appointment.

What To Bring

  • ID and insurance cards
  • A notebook and a pen - We encourage you to take notes and write down your questions during your appointment.
  • A family member or a friend - If you can, bring someone with you to be another set of ears in the room. In addition to providing emotional support, they can help you remember what the doctor says, take notes for you, and remind you of key questions that you don’t want to forget to ask.
  • A list of questions you would like to ask the doctor - There are no silly questions, especially when it comes to understanding your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’re not sure about something, just ask. Here are some things that are helpful to discuss during your first appointment:
    • What is my diagnosis and how soon do I need to start therapy?
    • What are my treatment options, what’s involved, and how long will each treatment take?
    • What are the benefits of the recommended treatment?
    • What are its potential risks and side effects?
    • Should I consider participating in a clinical trial?
    • How will treatment affect my daily routine? Can I continue to work through treatment?
    • Will treatment impact my fertility? If so, is there anything I can do to protect my ability to have children in the future?
    • What should I do if I develop new symptoms after I begin treatment?
    • What support resources are available to help me cope with my diagnosis?
    • Whom should I call if I have additional questions after I leave the office? 

Community Breast Cancer Support Services

National Breast Cancer Support Services

Disclaimer: The services and programs listed above are offered by the Rochester Regional Health Breast Center as a resource for patients and their families. This list is not meant to be all-inclusive, does not constitute a recommendation by the Rochester Regional Health Breast Center nor an assurance of the quality of services provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or would like more information on the breast services offered at the Breast Center, please contact us at 585.922.4715.