Skip to main content

Patient Journey

The cancer journey is not an easy road to travel without the support and guidance of your health care provider.

At BC Cancer – Abbotsford, while the main focus is on treating cancer, we also offer a wide variety of resources to help you and your loved ones cope during this difficult time. Click the tabs below for more information on what to expect during the patient journey and links to helpful resources.

Your first visit
Your first visit is for consultation and planning. A clerk may call you before your first visit to register you and get some information, such as your family doctor's name. You may also get a call from a nurse. The purpose of this call is to collect information about your medical history. If you do not get a call, don't worry – we will get the information from you at your first visit.

What to expect

When you arrive, check in at Main Reception. The receptionist will tell you where to go for your appointment. During your first visit, you will get a new patient brochure with contact details and important information about BC Cancer. You will also meet members of your cancer care team. They will learn about you, and together, make plans for your care. 

Before seeing your oncologist, you will spend about 30 minutes with a nurse. The nurse will talk with you and ask questions. 

At the end of your first visit, we will give you an appointment card which will have your next appointments written on it.

If you need help, please call 604-851-4710 or toll-free (within BC) 1-877-547-3777. 

Guidebook for Patients

For more information about what to expect during a first visit, download the Guidebook for Patients.

How to prepare
Please bring the following items with you to your first visit:

  • Your BC Services/BC Care Card
  • One piece of photo ID
  • A list of current medications (including pain medications, vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies, etc.)
  • Reading glasses, if you need them
  • The names and telephone numbers (work and home) of two contact people
  • Information on your health history and any allergies that you may have
  • X-rays or other diagnostic images that you may have been given
  • A list of questions to ask
  • A pen and notepad (optional)
For more information on how to prepare for a visit, download the Guidebook for Patients.

If you need further assistance, clerks are available to help and support you, and answer any questions you may have.

Frequently asked questions

 

Yes, if you need assistance communicating, bring an interpreter, ask a member of the health care team to request one on your behalf, or book on in advance by calling 604-851-4733 or toll-free (within BC) 1-877-547-3777. An interpreter may remain with you throughout your visit.

 

 

Yes, you may bring your cellular phone. While visiting BC Cancer – Abbotsford, cellular phones may be left on but in vibrate mode only. We ask patients and families not to use cell phones in the consultation or treatment areas.

 

Yes, you may bring someone with you for support. Having a family member or friend around is a great way to help you remember what was said. They may remain with you throughout your visit.

 

In consideration of those who have scent-related allergies, please do not wear scented products while visiting.

 
For more information on transportation assistance to and from cancer treatment appointments at BC Cancer – Abbotsford, visit Transportation & Lodging.

 

No, smoking is not permitted in the buildings or on the grounds of BC Cancer – Abbotsford.

 
Because of the length of your visit, we suggest you have a meal before coming, or a snack in the restaurant on Level 1 (unless otherwise instructed).

 
Resources
The effects of dealing with cancer can present unique challenges to your body, mind, relationships and lifestyle. Our Coping with Cancer section has helpful information to assist you in your journey, covering a number of topics, including:

  • Nutrition support: available services, and commonly asked questions.
  • Practical support: financial assistance programs, healthcare coverage information, traveling for appointments, home care and supporting returning to work. For financial assistance information, view our “Financial Information for Cancer Patients” pamphlet and other resources here.
  • Emotional support: information about how to access counselling, support programs, deal with  your emotions and access to our children’s and teen's websites
  • Managing symptoms & side effects: information about what to look out for and how to manage them better
  • Palliative support: information about what to expect as cancer advances
  • Transportation & lodging: travel and lodging information for patients and their families

Additional resources

Tab Heading
SOURCE: Patient Journey ( )
Page printed: . Unofficial document if printed. Please refer to SOURCE for latest information.

Copyright © BC Cancer. All Rights Reserved.

    Copyright © 2024 Provincial Health Services Authority