Chemotherapy
Supporting Every Step In Your Fight
At HOAF in Fredericksburg and Stafford, VA, our mission is to treat every patient with compassion and genuine care. We recognize this time in our patients’ lives is personal and vulnerable, and we strive to deliver the best healing experience possible. Our team focuses on a patient-centered approach to ensure your comfort and chemotherapy treatment are the utmost priority. At HOAF, we may use chemotherapy to fight your cancer and bring you on a path to a healing recovery. Learn more about this treatment approach by reading below.
What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a common type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells and reduce the chance of tumors growing. Cancer cells grow rapidly, so chemo drugs work aggressively to stop them from multiplying. The drugs are given through an IV and are an extremely effective treatment in the fight against cancer, but some patients may experience side effects. Some reasons our team may use chemotherapy include:
Before Getting Started With Chemotherapy
Before beginning chemotherapy at HOAF, patients can expect a comprehensive, compassionate approach to care. Your journey will start with an in-depth consultation where your medical oncologist will explain your treatment plan, discuss potential side effects and answer any questions you may have.
You will also meet with a dedicated care team during a treatment education session where you will be provided with detailed instructions on how to prepare for treatment, including dietary recommendations and medications to manage side effects. This session will take about 45 minutes to an hour of your time and also includes a tour of our state-of-the-art facility. If your provider believes you need additional testing prior to beginning chemo, we will make sure that is coordinated before you leave.
What Happens During Your Chemotherapy Session?
During your chemotherapy appointment at HOAF in Fredericksburg or Stafford, VA, you will be welcomed by a compassionate team in a comfortable and relaxing setting. After a quick check of your vitals and a review of any symptoms you may be experiencing, the chemotherapy infusion process will begin. Your medication is administered intravenously (IV through a vein) by a skilled nurse, who will closely monitor you throughout the session to ensure your comfort and safety. The length of your appointment will vary depending on the treatment plan as set forth by your medical oncologist.
Managing Potential Side Effects
At HOAF, our goal is to treat, heal and empower our patients throughout the journey with us. While chemotherapy has proven to be extremely effective in fighting cancer, many patients experience multiple side effects. We believe if you know the side effects beforehand and have the tools to manage them successfully, it will allow you to cope with them more effectively. Here are some common side effects and ways to prepare for them:
Keeping Our Patients Comfortable During Chemotherapy
Your comfort is at the forefront of everything we do here at HOAF. We recognize that chemotherapy is not the most pleasant treatment, so we do our very best to accommodate any needs you may have. We happily offer drinks and light snacks, but please feel free to bring any food or meals with you that you prefer. We also have tablets with internet access, entertainment and healthcare information available for you to read.
HOAF Means Hope
Where Healing Begins, Strength Prevails
At HOAF, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for cancer and blood disorders to the Fredericksburg, Stafford, and surrounding communities. Our practice integrates advanced treatments with a personalized approach, delivering the highest quality care. As an independent practice, we focus on individualized attention, ensuring each patient receives compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Our cutting-edge facility, equipped with an on-site pharmacy, offers convenience and a seamless treatment experience.
