Cancer FAQ
Find the answers you need
If you’re in the process of cancer treatment or just received a cancer diagnosis, it’s normal to have lots of questions. Adventist Health has answers to commonly asked questions.
We want you to feel informed and confident. Our cancer FAQ is designed to ease your concerns and help you feel supported along the way.
What should I expect when I meet the doctor for the first time?
Your doctor will talk with you about your medical history and symptoms and conduct a thorough exam. In that appointment, we’ll discuss the next steps, including additional tests you may need.
What technologies do you use to diagnose patients?
We offer the most advanced diagnostic technology to provide accurate, timely answers. We perform imaging tests such as ultrasound, X-ray, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and PET or SPECT scans. Our team also uses minimally invasive diagnostic methods, using small incisions and instruments to see inside your body. Learn more aboutcancer diagnosisat Adventist Health.
What should I expect from cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or immunotherapy?
These therapies typically last a few weeks to a few months. They are usually done as outpatient procedures, so you receive your treatment and go home the same day. Our team works with you to ease the discomfort of any side effects.
Learn more about what you can expect fromchemotherapy,radiation therapyandimmunotherapy. Your nurse navigator helps you prepare for each phase of treatment with guidance customized for you.
How will you help me manage side effects from my treatment?
Every patient experiences treatment differently. Our compassionate team helps you manage side effects and supports your physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
We can prescribe medication and assist you with physical activity and nutrition to help ease these side effects. Our nutrition experts can guide you with personalized dietary recommendations before, during and after cancer treatment.
How do I know if I need cancer surgery?
After a meticulous diagnosis, our team of cancer experts collaborates to discuss the best treatment for you. We may recommend surgery if we determine that’s the best way forward. We’ll discuss your treatment options with you in a straightforward, caring manner to help you decide on the right options for you.
What kinds of technologies do you use to treat patients?
We use advanced diagnostic and treatment technology to offer safe, effective care. For example, we often perform minimally invasive surgery, which uses smaller incisions and instruments to help you recover smoothly and safely.
What do I need to know before surgery?
Your care team provides you with thorough guidelines to prepare for surgery. These important to-do’s help ensure a safe, smooth surgery and recovery.
I had cancer treatment somewhere else. Can I have restorative cancer surgery at Adventist Health?
Absolutely.Contact usto learn more about your options for restorative surgery.
Do all of your doctors perform surgery?
Oncologic surgeons perform surgery. Our medical and radiation oncologists don’t perform surgery, but they often collaborate with oncologic surgeons.
How do I find a doctor near me?
You canfind an Adventist Health doctornear you who specializes in cancer care.
Learn more about our cancer care
Let us be your partner in better health.
Learn about ouroncology services, orfind a locationclose to you. You can also read ourpatient storiesand get answers tofrequently asked questions.
Locations
AIS Cancer Center: Adventist Health Bakersfield
2620 Chester Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Cancer Center: Adventist Health and Rideout
618 5th Street
Marysville, CA 95901
Women's Imaging Center: Adventist Health and Rideout
945 Shasta Street, Suite 150
Yuba City, CA 95993
Adventist Health Bakersfield
2615 Chester Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Adventist Health Clear Lake
15630 18th Avenue
Clearlake, California 95422
Adventist Health Medical Office
5125 Skyway
Paradise, CA 95969
Adventist Health Glendale
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, California 91206
Adventist Health Hanford
115 Mall Drive
Hanford, CA 93230
Breast Care Center: Adventist Health Hanford
125 Mall Drive, Suite 203
Hanford, CA 93230
Radiation Oncology: Adventist Health Physicians Network
2407 W. Vine Street
Lodi, CA 95242
Oncology: Adventist Health Physicians Network
18990 Coyote Valley Road, Suite 5
Hidden Valley Lake, CA 95467
Adventist Health Simi Valley
2975 North Sycamore Drive
Simi Valley, California 93065
Adventist Health Sonora
1000 Greenley Road
Sonora, California 95370
Adventist Health St Helena
10 Woodland Road
St. Helena, California 94574
Adventist Health Tillamook
1000 Third Street
Tillamook, Oregon 97141
Cancer and Infusion Center: Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
260 Hospital Drive, Suite 207
Ukiah, CA 95482
Adventist Health White Memorial
1720 East Cesar E. Chavez Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90033
Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center: Adventist Health White Memorial
1720 East Cesar E Chavez Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90033
Cancer Center: Adventist Health Glendale
381 Merrill Avenue, Suite A
Glendale, CA 91206
Diana J. White Cancer Institute
900 Mono Way
Sonora, CA 95370
Family Medicine, Residency: Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
260 Hospital Drive, Suite 103
Ukiah, CA 95482
Martin O'Neill Cancer Center: Adventist Health St. Helena
10 Woodland Road
St. Helena, CA 94574
Sequoia Regional Cancer Center Medical Oncology
857 Garner Avenue
Hanford, CA 93230