Plan Your Care

Preparing For Your First Visit

Your first visit will usually include the following steps: 

1. Nurse Coordinator Triage: A nurse coordinator will call you prior to your appointment to assess your medical history. This will help ensure you see the right healthcare providers on the day and that all your needs will be met ahead of your first visit. 
2. Registration: A patient access representative will meet with you to review your insurance benefits and sign initial forms. 
3. Screening tests: You will meet with a member of your health care team. You may need to complete medical tests before you see your doctor. 
4. Meeting with your doctor: Your doctor and care team will review your test results and your medical history. Then, your doctor will perform a physical exam. With this information, your care team will develop and discuss a treatment plan that is unique to you, as needed. 
5. Deciding on a treatment plan: Your care team will discuss next steps with you. You may have choices to make about the type of treatment and where you want to receive your treatment. 

Please bring the following with you to your first appointment (if you have them): 

• Medical summary or history 
• List of medications  
• Radiology tests  
• Biopsy or procedure results. 

Other things to remember before your first visit: 

• Write down any questions you may think of before your first visit and bring them with you. 
• Bring paper and pencil so you can take notes during your appointment. 
• Arrange for a friend or family member to come with you. You will receive a lot of information that day. It is helpful to have someone else with you to listen and take notes. 

Other healthcare professionals who may be involved in your care: 

• Nurse coordinator: Your care team usually includes a nurse coordinator, who will be your main point of contact. They will work closely with you to understand your needs and ensure a smooth journey during your cancer treatment.  
• Tumor board: Our cancer specialists meet regularly as a team on tumor boards to review each patient’s specific health needs, diagnosis and treatment options. Your nurse navigator also attends the tumor board to discuss any issues that could affect your treatment plan. 

Second Opinion

Learning that you have cancer can be an overwhelming experience. As you begin researching what steps to take after receiving a cancer diagnosis, you’ll probably hear a lot about getting a second opinion. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides second opinions for people who have been newly diagnosed with cancer, as well as for those who may be further along in their course of treatment.

Our cancer medical experts provide second opinions to review a diagnosis or treatment plan and discuss a variety of treatment options. When you come to us for a second opinion, you don’t have to commit to receiving treatment here.

Returning Patients

Whether you’re an established patient receiving treatment here or a returning patient with a new diagnosis, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is beside you to assist you on your cancer journey. Let us help you determine next steps.

• Schedule an appointment: You can see a cancer physician in person at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Cancer Center or schedule a video or phone visit. Click here to make an appointment
• Send recent records: You or your referring care provider can send any recent diagnostic images or test results to us. Your care team here will review them before your next visit.
• 4th Angel Mentoring Program: A personalized peer support initiative, aimed at empowering those affected by cancer and its treatment.

Billing & Insurance

Healthcare is complicated, and so is insurance. You can avoid getting unexpected bills by having authorization from your insurance company before a scan, test or treatment. That is why you may be asked to wait while your insurance company pre-authorizes a last-minute service. While we ask for feedback from your insurance company as soon as possible, reviews may not be immediate.

We understand this can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially for those with a tight travel schedule. However, this important step can influence future coverage decisions by your insurance company. If you have questions about your coverage, speak to the Financial Clearance Center team.

International Patients

If you or your family member has been diagnosed with cancer, you will face a lot of difficult questions. Where should you go for care? What are your treatment options?

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has a dedicated team ready to guide you. We will answer your questions and match you with the best doctors and services for your needs.

Our dedicated international patients team provides comprehensive services for patients from around the world who come to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi for specialized medical care. We are committed to ensuring that patients with a variety of medical needs receive the care they require as efficiently and comfortably as possible.

Further information for international patients can be found here: