Understanding Cancer Treatments
- What is Cancer? Cancer is defined as the uncontrolled growth of cells within the body. Cancer cells lose the ability to limit and direct their growth resulting in the formation of tumors. Malignant or cancerous tumors may invade and destroy nearby tissues and organs. These cancers may also spread or metastasize to other parts of the body creating new malignant tumors.
- What is Medical Oncology? Medical Oncology, a sub-specialty of internal medicine, is devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of malignant solid tumors. The primary treatment of the oncologist is the use of chemotherapy (powerful medications that destroy cancer cells). Your physician may request additional treatment in the form of surgery and/or radiation therapy.
- What is Hematology? Hematology, also a sub-specialty of internal medicine, is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of blood diseases including anemias, bleeding disorders and tumors originating in the blood and lymphatic systems. Chemotherapy is often the mode of therapy used to treat many of these conditions.
Insurance
- Do you accept my Insurance? At OHA, we accept all insurances. Depending on your particular plan, your benefits may vary. If you have concerns or questions about your particular plan coverage, please call one of our financial counselors or email us at at info@ohaclinic.com. We will be happy to help you navigate your benefits.
Here is a list of In-Network insurance carriers:
Anthem
Aetna
Cigna
Cox HealthPlans
Humana
Medicare
Medicaid
Med-Pay
United Healthcare
Our financial counselors are knowledgeable and ready to help. Please get in touch with any questions.
About Our Office
- What if I have a question? We urge you to ask your medical team any and all questions.
- How do I reach your office? Our office hours are 8:30am to 4:30pm weekdays. You can reach us at 417-882-4880 (24 hours a day). You can also find us on the Internet at www.ohaclinic.com and through the “See Your Chart” patient access portal.
- What About Appointments? Your next appointment will be scheduled before leaving the office. Please contact us 48 hours in advance if you have to cancel an appointment.
- Are Children Allowed? In order to maintain the healthiest environment possible for immunosuppressed patients, children under the age of seven are not permitted in patient care areas. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted in the treatment area for the protection of both the child and the patient.
- How do I get Prescriptions and Refills? As you prepare for each office visit, take time to make a list of all your medications. Notify your pharmacy when you need prescription refills with the exception of pain medications. We can not refill pain medications after hours or on weekends. You will need to contact our office 24 hours in advance for pain medication refills.
Communication and Support
- Who sees my medical records? Your medical records are kept strictly confidential. They are reviewed by your medical team in order to provide you with state-of-the-art medical care.
- How can I learn more about my diagnosis? You will be provided with information regarding your diagnosis and treatment. You can easily access additional information through the “See Your Chart” patient access portal.
- What about support groups? Several different support groups are available. Please ask your medical team for more information.
Medical Conditions Unrelated to Cancer
- Who do I see about other medical conditions while undergoing cancer treatment? Many patients may have underlying medical problems that our physicians do not manage. We ask that you maintain an ongoing relationship with your primary care physician as we will rely upon your physician to continue to refill your regular medicines and care for medical conditions that are not chemotherapy related. If hospitalizations are required for other medical conditions not related to your cancer treatment, you should continue to rely upon your primary care physician for these hospitalizations.