New Patient FAQs

Providing Answers To Your Questions

At HOAF, serving Fredericksburg, Stafford and the surrounding communities, we recognize that this new journey you are about to embark on can be scary and contain many unknowns. We are here to help ease your concerns and clear up any questions you may have. At your appointment, your compassionate, board certified Oncologist will make sure you leave our office confident about your treatment plan and ensure you are aware about the resources available to you. In the meantime, please explore some of our responses to new patient frequently asked questions below.

Waiting area hematology oncology associates of fredericksburg the pines location

Yes! HOAF happily offers free Wi-Fi to our patients and their guest while they receive treatment. The password is patients (all lowercase).

Absolutely! At HOAF, we recognize our patients feel more comfortable when they have that extra support from a family member or friend. We just ask that you limit it to one visitor per visit in order to accommodate all our patients.

Yes, you can view your lab results on your patient portal once the physician has signed off on them.

We do not have a vending machine at any of our facilities; however, you are welcome to help yourself to some coffee as well as other assorted beverages and snacks in the infusion area and on the exam side. HOAF allows outside food items, and we encourage you to pack a lunch, especially if you are here for a longer infusion session.

As we treat every patient with individualized care, we recommend you discuss your diet with your HOAF provider–any diet restrictions may depend on the severity of your illness and lab work that may need to be performed.

In order to ensure that your body is stable and you are ready for treatment, we ask that you have your lab work done the day before certain chemotherapy regimens. This is a safety measure, as your blood counts, kidney function and liver function must be assessed prior to certain treatments.

The short answer is that it depends. According to the American Cancer Society, when you have cancer, you have a weakened immune system. Vaccines help your immune system recognize and fight off germs and harmful bacteria. They are created often with part of the germ whether it is live, but weakened or killed (inactive). The American Cancer Society recommends that anyone with cancer or a weakened immune system should not get a live immunization. Our doctors, who have your best interests in mind, will discuss with you about which vaccines, if any, you may be able to get while under our care.

Yes, please continue to take your regular medications as part of your normal routine. Our provider will clarify during your appointment if there are any medications you should stop taking while undergoing treatment.

Once starting chemotherapy, you should take your temperature twice a day, every day. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, a fever is the sign of infection, and it can be life-threatening for someone who has cancer. If you experience a temperature of 100.4ºF or higher, contact our office immediately.

You will see your oncologist throughout your treatment for scan reviews. You will also meet regularly with one of our advanced practice providers who will manage your symptoms and coordinate any day-to-day care you may need during the course of your treatment. Additionally, we offer emergency cancer for our oncology patents.

After treatment, you will meet with your medical oncologist here at HOAF at either one of our Fredericksburg facilities or our Stafford location to review any pertinent testing and continue with your plan of care.

Not all cancer regimens will cause you to lose your hair. If you are receiving a treatment that has a side effect of causing hair loss, it will be reviewed with you at your chemotherapy education appointment.

We ask that you do your best to avoid any dental procedures while on treatment. We understand that dental emergencies sometimes happen and will work with you if you need to see your dentist while in treatment.

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.

Blue pathway
Patient holding hands with loved one during infusion
Patient holding hands with loved one during infusion
Hematology oncology associates of fredericksburg logo featuring pine trees, a river graphic, and the acronym hoaf representing cancer and blood disorder care in fredericksburg, virginia.

Compassionate Care In A Courageous Fight

The Lodge | 4501 Empire Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

The Pines | 4545 Empire Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

Woodstream | 125 Woodstream Boulevard, Suite 205, Stafford, VA 22556

(540) 371-0079

The Lodge | 4501 Empire Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

The Pines | 4545 Empire Court, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

Woodstream | 125 Woodstream Boulevard, Suite 205, Stafford, VA 22556

(540) 371-0079