Medical Oncology with Northwest Medical Specialties at the Jane Thompson Russell Cancer Care Center

Scheduling appointments
Our office hours are:
Monday - Friday,8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
For appointments call: 253-428-8700

Your medical oncology appointments can be scheduled weekdays during office hours. We try very hard to stay on schedule and know your time is extremely valuable. However, emergencies do arise unexpectedly. If we are delayed, or if we need to reschedule your appointment, we will notify you in advance. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

What to expect at your first appointment
We will begin a permanent record on your first visit. We ask that you arrive 10 minutes early so that you have time to complete the necessary forms. Please bring your insurance card, insurance referral forms or DSHS coupon with you. If we sent you medical history forms, please also bring the completed forms. To allow us to perform a comprehensive consultation, we will need to have all pertinent X-rays, CAT scans and MRI scans available for review.

We will also need copies of EMG reports, consultations and records from your referring doctor. At the time that you make your appointment, the receptionist will explain how to have this information available at your visit. Please bring all of your X-rays, scans and reports with you to your appointment. After your visit, we will report promptly to your referring and family doctors.

Canceling an appointment
If you are going to be late for an appointment or need to reschedule, please call as soon as possible. This courtesy allows us to be available to other patients who may be waiting for appointments.

Telephone calls & after hours
We encourage you to call during regular office hours if you have any questions or concerns about your condition or treatment. For emergencies, call our office at 253-428-8700. An oncologist is always available, 24-hours per day, seven days a week.

Confidentiality
Your medical record is private; we will not give information to anyone without your permission, except as required by law.

Fees and insurance
We accept most managed care and commercial health insurance plans, and file claims directly with these companies. We will bill Medicare and accept assignment. However, in order to avoid any unexpected charges, we recommend you find out about co-payment policies and familiarize yourself with any restrictions regarding self-referrals. We appreciate co-payment at the time services are rendered.

Franciscan Health System provides services to all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay. If you would like more information about how we can assist you with your bill, please talk to the receptionist when you visit a clinic. The receptionist can direct you to a patient account representative, who will help you evaluate your payment options. For your convenience we accept cash, check or credit card.