Physical before radiation

Pooki

Is it normal standard of care for the radiation oncologist to have you have a physical done (not physical exam) before starting treatment? I had my planning session done last week, then I got a call on Friday to come in get my questions answered and complete a physical before starting....

Just wasn't sure if that was typical and what they might be looking for or having concerns about.....

AliceBastable

What is the difference between a physical and a physical exam? I'm not sure what you're asking.

Pooki

Physical meaning blood work and a more comprehensive medical history and exam, versus just physically examining my breast. The doctor did that at my first appointment, and now that planning is done, she wants to do more comprehensive exam with blood work. I had done that before my surgery as well, so wasn't sure if that was the norm before radiation.

Salamandra

My medical oncologist had me do bloodwork and an EKG before starting tamoxifen. For me the timing of that was also before starting radiation. The ro did not mention anything about it.

JosieO

Pooki and all,

Is this a hospital system you have been a part of previously, or are you new to it?

I had a pretty comprehensive medical file, including regular blood tests and a recent EKG, all at the same hospital system. My records were available to every one of my cancer team, and before my lumpectomy I did have a pre-surgery exam which also updated many of these tests.

Even with all of that, I still had pre and post radiation blood work. And continue to have periodic blood work with my hormone therapy

To me, a sign of thorough planning, so I was ok with it.

Ask, I am sure they will explain everything.

hapa

RO didn't have any blood work done. The physical consisted of examining my breasts to make sure he had a good angle to get around my implants and make sure I could get my arm above my head.