Prepare for Your First Visit
If your child has an appointment with the Children’s Cancer Hospital, you may want to know what to expect. Here’s a brief overview of what your first visit might be like. We also have a checklist and welcome folder that you can print out before your visit.
When families are faced with cancer, the first few days can be overwhelming. It may be helpful to bring someone who can take notes during your visits so that you can focus on the discussions with your child's doctor. Some families bring a journal or tape recorder to help them remember what was discussed.
Arrival
When entering the Clark Clinic lobby of M. D. Anderson, head left toward the coffee shop and get on Elevator C. Take the elevator to the 7th floor and head left down the hallway to the Robin Bush Child and Adolescent Clinic.
Check-in
Once at our clinic, please sign in at the front desk. Not too long after your check-in, you’ll meet one of our Patient Access Specialists who will ask you to fill out some paperwork including your child’s medical history and contact information. Make sure to have your insurance information and other identification with you for this visit.
After Registration
After filling out your paperwork, you’ll be escorted back to the waiting area of the clinic. Your child can take this time to play in our playroom, and he/she may meet someone from our Child Life staff. They are here to make your child feel comfortable and to help your child understand his/her diagnosis and treatment. If time allows, you may also meet with our pediatric Social Worker and/or Patient Advocate while waiting.
Medical Examination
When the nurse calls your child’s name, you will go to an exam room and a nurse will take your child’s temperature, blood pressure and heart rate. The nurse will review your child’s medical history, and you may need to answer some additional questions. Then you will meet your child’s physician who will complete the examination.
What to Bring
Sometimes, children must be admitted overnight for testing or treatment. You may want to pack an overnight bag with a couple of changes of clothes in case you need to stay. There will be plenty of toys to play with in the playroom, but you may want to pack a special item, such as a blanket or favorite toy, that may be of comfort to your child. You may also bring video games or personal DVD players to help pass the time.
Questions
If you have any questions prior to or after your visit, please call our Patient Access Center at 713-792-5410.
Contact Us
Questions? Need help?
Want to request an appointment?
Call the Children's Cancer Hospital
713-792-5410
(Toll-Free) 888-543-2435
Or call askMDAnderson
1-877-MDA-6789