Overview
Where you can focus on what matters most
It's natural to feel uncertain and even nervous when you've been referred to a cancer center. We understand how tough this can be, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. The UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center is Wisconsin's only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center. This is the highest level of designation given by the National Cancer Institute, which is part of the National Institutes of Health. What this means is the Carbone Cancer Center brings together research, clinical care and research to provide you with the best care possible. Here at the Carbone Cancer Center you'll have access to hundreds of clinical trials and the latest treatments. While our experts have cared for thousands of patients, your care is the only thing that matters to us.
UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center
The experts at the UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center intimately understand every type of cancer. We will get to know you and design a treatment plan that works for you and your family.
About your visit
Your first appointment
Your first appointment at the Carbone Cancer Center is an important step in your care journey. Here’s what you can expect.
What to prepare for your first appointment
Sign up for MyChart
From appointment registration, viewing test results, even sending messages to your care team, MyChart allows you to connect with the information you need to manage your care.
Check your insurance coverage
UW Health will review your health insurance coverage, including any insurance requirements for preauthorization or notification, and submit claims to your health insurance on your behalf. You will be required to pay known financial liabilities (copays, deductibles) before or at the time of service. After your insurance company has processed the claim and paid its portion, you will be responsible for any remaining balance.
If you have questions about your health insurance coverage or your visit, or would like to discuss payment options or financial assistance, please call (877) 565-0505 to speak with a financial counselor. The hospital and its associated clinics and our physician group have separate billing regulatory requirements. Your bill will list professional services and hospital/clinic services separately.
Depending on your insurance plan, you may be subject to different out-of-pocket costs when treated at a provider-based clinic. Some insurers pay hospital/clinic charges differently than professional charges. Please review your benefits handbook.
Make a financial plan
Our financial counselors will help you understand and manage your UW Health bills.
We can assist you with setting up payment plans, providing estimated costs for upcoming services, exploring other coverage options such as governmental programs or plans on the Healthcare Marketplace and if applicable, applying for UW Health’s Financial Assistance Program. For more information, visit UW Health Billing and Insurance or call us at (877) 565-0505.
Organize medical records
The intake nurse will review the necessary medical documents you need to bring for your first appointment. If your medical records have not already been sent to us, please bring items such as medical records, X-rays or imaging CDs, pathology slides and letters from your doctor.
Create a list of questions and information you may need
Questions
As you prepare for your first appointment, you might have a list of questions you would like to cover with your provider. Write them down so you can have them available during your appointment.
Medication and supplements
If you are taking medication or any supplements, write them down in a list, including the dosage and how often you take them. This includes any over-the-counter medications, such as allergy or acid reflux medicines.
What to bring to your appointment
A friend or loved one. If possible, it can be helpful to bring someone with you to your appointments to help take notes.
The list of questions you prepared
The list of medications and supplements you prepared
Personal identification
Medical insurance card
Pre-appointment paperwork. In some cases you might be asked to complete some questionnaires prior to your appointment. Please bring the completed forms with you.
Registration and initial meeting
For your appointment, please check in at least 20 minutes before your scheduled time. The registration staff will verify your information, including your address and insurance details, and then direct you to the appropriate waiting area.
Opportunity to donate tissue and fluids
New patients at the Carbone Cancer Center will at some point be asked if they wish to donate samples of their tumor tissue or bodily fluids to a BioBank, which is a storage unit for keeping human tissue and fluids for future research. This is completely voluntary; any donated tissue or fluids will not be linked to your name. By donating, you will help cancer researchers better understand many facets of cancer, including prevention, earlier diagnosis and prospect for better outcomes.
Learn about donating tissue samples
Your care team
Specialists in cancer care
Depending on your condition, your care team will include experts from across many different areas who will be focused on your physical and emotional well-being. Some patients, especially those with more complex cases, might be assigned a nurse navigator who will act as your advocate, helping you schedule appointments, navigate insurance questions and provide a reassuring voice when needed.
Team members could include:
Advanced practice providers
Health psychologists
Medical oncologists
Nurse navigators
Nutritionists
Occupational therapists
Oncology pharmacists
Pain management specialists
Pathologists
Physical therapists
Psychologists
Radiation oncologists
RNs
Social workers
Surgeons
Directions and parking
Getting here
Most patients have their first appointment at University Hospital, located on the west end of the UW-Madison campus at 600 Highland Ave. in Madison. If your appointment is at a different location, you will be given specific directions.
Parking at University Hospital
We suggest parking in the University Hospital ramp. Take a parking ticket from the machine as you enter the gate and bring it with you for validation inside, which will allow for free parking. Free valet parking is also available.
Other locations
Parking varies depending on the location of your appointment. Most locations have surface lots, and University Hospital offers both garage parking and valet options.
We offer advanced cancer treatments in Madison and northern Illinois. Additionally, we provide clinical trials through our regional clinics and the Wisconsin Oncology Network.
Patient resources
Helpful information
Understanding cancer risk
We often hear about a "family history of cancer," but even people with no family history of cancer can develop the disease.
Genetic counseling's role in understanding cancer risks
Genetic testing can help a person understand whether they’ve inherited a higher risk of developing certain cancers and develop plans for preventive care.
Cancer clinical trials
At the UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center, our cancer patients have access to more than 250 clinical trials. This includes enrolling in groundbreaking new treatments available here for the first time.