How long will I have to wait for an appointment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering?
Children can often be seen within 24 hours but this is often dependent on the individual patient's condition, stage of treatment, location, etc. For an appointment, call 212-639-5954. For more information, see Making an Appointment.
Is one doctor in charge of my child's treatment?
Yes. Although treatment may involve more than one modality, such as surgery and chemotherapy for example, your child's attending physician coordinates all the care.
What is a "Pediatric Disease Management Team" at Memorial Sloan-Kettering?
Cancer care at Memorial Sloan-Kettering involves physicians from different disciplines, who specialize in one or more related diseases. These experts work together as a team to develop the best possible treatment program for an individual with a specific type of cancer. Members of a particular team may include surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, oncology nurses, and social workers.
When must I sign a consent form?
You will be asked to read and sign a general consent form for your child in order to perform diagnostic tests. Once the diagnosis is established, your physician will meet with you to discuss recommended treatments. When the treatment plan is established, you will be asked to sign additional consent forms regarding the treatment your child will receive. If your child is old enough, they will also participate in the consent process.
Will my child participate in a clinicial trial?
If participation in a clinical trial is appropriate, your physician will discuss the specifics with you and, if you agree that it is the best choice for your child, obtain your permission.
Will my insurance company pay for treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering?
We suggest that you speak to your health insurance company directly to discuss what authorizations are necessary for treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering. Memorial Sloan-Kettering offers financial counseling to assist patients with clarification of insurance issues.
