Patient and Family Information

A cancer patient’s overall program of therapy may consist of a combination of different treatments (or “modalities,” as they are sometimes called). The most commonly used treatments are radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. The Big Horn Basin Radiation Oncology Center provides radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is also available in the building (call 406-238-6290), while surgery is generally conducted at a hospital.

The proper course of treatment for each patient depends on many things, and is a highly personalized program developed for each individual. Your medical oncologist is a good person to talk to if you have questions about treatment options. Additional information about treatment is available from the National Cancer Institute. (See also Forms of Cancer Treatment.)

If you are a cancer patient who requires radiation therapy, you may be referred to us by your medical oncologist (cancer doctor). Your entire course of treatment at the Big Horn Basin Radiation Oncology Center will probably span five to seven weeks. Daily treatments are brief -- usually lasting from 30 to 90 seconds -- but additional time is required for setup, so we suggest that you allow 45 minutes each day for your treatment time.

Tip: Your first appointment, since it involves the admitting process and some treatment planning consultation, may last one to two hours.

A detailed Patient Guide and Patient Handbook are provided to each patient and family upon admission for treatment. Surveys have shown that many patients either feel shy in the doctor's office or may feel overwhelmed with information.

Tip: Try to bring a companion with you on the days that you'll be chatting with your doctor(s). What you forget, your companion may remember. And it's a great idea to make a list of questions before you come in. You'll be glad you did.

Click on any of the following topics for more details:
The Basics of Radiation Therapy
Counseling and Support
What About My Bill and All Those Insurance Forms
What's In the Patient Handbook
Who Do I Call for Information on Financial Aid
Who Do I Call if I Have Questions About My Treatment
Who Do I Call if I Hear about a New Form of Treatment
How Do I Make a Contribution
Other Cancer Related Internet Resources
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