Functional oncology is one of our pillars of care that we provide to each of our cancer patients at our Irvine clinic.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with cancer and want to explore a more comprehensive approach to care, our functional oncology program is designed for you.
However, you may be curious what your first oncology appointment will look like. This may help clear up the anxiety, overwhelm, or simple curiosity.
We here at the Cancer Center for Healing in Irvine understand that no two patients are alike. That’s why we design our appointments to be thorough, personal, educational, and empowering. From the moment you walk through our doors for your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing, our goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and supported.
A Warm Welcome and Purposeful Intake
So, what happens at your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing? It all begins with an intentional welcome. Our team greets you in a calming, spa-like environment that reflects our philosophy of whole-body healing. We know you’re coming to us with more than just a medical diagnosis; you’re coming as a person seeking answers, options, and hope.
You’ll start by completing a comprehensive health history and lifestyle questionnaire. This isn’t just paperwork: It’s the foundation for understanding the root causes of imbalance in your body. We want to know your medical background, current symptoms, family history, nutrition, stress levels, toxin exposure, and more. The more we understand you, the better we can tailor your care.
An Integrative Medical Consultation
One of the most important parts of what happens at your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing is the consultation with one of our integrative oncologists or functional medicine practitioners. This is not a rushed 10-minute visit. Instead, it’s an in-depth conversation, often lasting up to 90 minutes, where we discuss your diagnosis, listen to your concerns, and start to build a full picture of your health.
Our providers are experts in combining conventional oncology with integrative therapies. They’ll explain how our approach differs from traditional oncology and walk you through potential next steps based on your needs and goals. We encourage you to bring any test results, imaging, or pathology reports you’ve already received so we can review them with you together.
Beginning the Testing Process
Another key element of what happens at your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing is beginning diagnostic testing. While standard imaging and bloodwork are essential, we go further to uncover underlying contributors to disease, such as inflammation, heavy metal toxicity, hormonal imbalance, immune suppression, and nutrient deficiencies.
Initial labs may include tumor markers, immune function panels, vitamin and mineral levels, and advanced testing such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or cancer metabolism analysis. If needed, we’ll also begin coordinating functional diagnostic tests that offer a deeper look into how your body is functioning on a cellular level.
This testing phase is vital because our model is based on treating the terrain, not just the tumor. Knowing what’s happening beneath the surface helps us create a personalized healing strategy.
Collaborative Planning and Custom Care
So by now you might be wondering, “What happens after my first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing?” After your consultation and labs are ordered, our clinical team begins to build your personalized integrative oncology plan. Every recommendation—whether it’s nutritional support, detoxification protocols, IV therapy, or mind-body care—is grounded in your unique health profile and diagnosis.
You’ll return shortly after your first visit for a follow-up appointment to review your lab results and begin your recommended therapies. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a highly customized roadmap for healing that works in tandem with (or as an alternative to) conventional care, depending on your situation.
Compassionate Support from Day One
Another crucial part of what happens at your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing is emotional and spiritual support. We understand the fear and uncertainty that can come with a diagnosis. That’s why we offer you the time, space, and compassion to process everything without pressure.
You are not just a case file or lab report to us. You are a whole person, and our team is here to walk with you from day one. You’ll also meet our patient care coordinators, who are dedicated to helping you feel confident navigating the path ahead, from scheduling and insurance to understanding your treatment plan.
Why Patients Choose the Cancer Center for Healing for Their First Oncology Appointment
When patients ask, “What happens at your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing?” they’re often amazed at the difference in how they’re treated. This is not a conventional hospital visit. It’s the start of a partnership rooted in respect, personalization, and whole-body healing.
Our center in Irvine is led by Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy, a pioneer in functional and integrative oncology. She and her team have helped thousands of patients find clarity and hope through a model of care that honors both advanced medicine and natural healing. At your first appointment, you’ll feel that difference immediately.
Schedule Your First Appointment Today
Whether you or a loved one is taking next steps for cancer treatment, we hope to see you at our facilities in Irvine. We invite you to take your first step and schedule your first oncology appointment at the Cancer Center for Healing. This could be the beginning of a more empowering, compassionate, and effective approach to healing.
Let your healing journey begin with a team that truly sees the whole you.
