Many things may put you at a higher risk of developing cancer. These include lifestyle factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, being overweight, dietary habits, and sun exposure. Others are less avoidable and include family or personal history of cancer, exposure to viral infections, chemicals, and radiation exposure.
If you are at increased risk of developing cancer, specialists at the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute High Risk Program listen to your concerns and formulate a personal care plan for proper cancer screening, risk management, and ongoing surveillance.
Having a risk factor, or multiple, does not mean you will get cancer. If you have risk factors, talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk, what follow-up you might need, and if you are a candidate for Northside’s High Risk Program.
The High Risk Program sees patients with the following risk factors:
Your physician may refer you to the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute High Risk Clinic where we offer specialized care for patients who might have an elevated risk of cancer. During your visit, we empower you to manage your risk of developing cancer through prevention and early detection. Your plan of care may recommend enhanced cancer screenings, genetic testing, or lifestyle changes, along with regular follow-ups. Our team of compassionate and qualified specialists include dedicated nurse practitioners, genetic counselors, and a registered dietitian.
Is a referral required for an appointment to the High Risk clinic?
We do not require a referral from your doctor, however, your insurance company may require a referral for seeing a specialist.
Is there a cost for this service?
We will collect your insurance information when we schedule your appointment and will bill accordingly. If an office visit co-pay is required, we will collect that during your visit.
Who are the providers in the High Risk Clinic?
Patients will be seen by a specialized nurse practitioner. If genetic testing is needed, patients will see a certified genetic counselor for results of testing. Patients also have the opportunity to see a registered dietitian.
What does a typical visit to the High Risk clinic look like?
Once an appointment is scheduled, an email will be sent to you to complete a brief online risk assessment. This will need to be completed before your visit. If you have any difficulty completing or accessing the assessment, please arrive 20 minutes prior to your appointment and we will assist you.
During your appointment, you will meet with the nurse practitioner and discuss family and medical history, risk assessment results, risk reducing options and recommended screenings. A breast exam will be done, if indicated. Additionally, genetic testing is available on site if you qualify. Regular visits last approximately one hour (in addition to any time spent on the risk assessment.)
Participants of the High Risk Clinic are offered two complementary nutrition appointments with a registered dietitian with the goal of helping you further lower your cancer risk through lifestyle changes.
For more information about our High Risk Program contact us at:
Phone: 404-851-6284
Fax: 404-303-3873
Email: [email protected]