Dedicated to Discovery. Committed to Care.

What to Expect

The Day of Your First Visit

On the day of your first appointment, come to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's main entrance at 44 Binney Street. On-site parking is available at discounted rates. Adult patients will then check in at the reception desk at your appropriate treatment center; pediatric patients will check in at the Jimmy Fund Clinic on the third floor of the Dana Building. Here, you will be asked to sign a form giving consent for medical services. You will also receive a patient identification card.

Please make sure you have brought with you your medical records, patient health history form, and insurance cards.

You should plan to spend up to two or three hours for your first visit.

Please see the visitors guide for more information about parking, transportation, lodging and more.

Visitors' Guide

Your Care at Dana-Farber

At the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, our specialists work as a team to evaluate and treat patients with all types of cancers. Our goal is to provide an expert evaluation and the most advanced care possible.

During your first visit, you will meet with the health-care professionals involved in your care. Your medical records and history will be reviewed, followed by an examination. We will answer any questions and discuss treatment options, including the possibility of participating in clinical studies of innovative new treatments.

Your first appointment will be tailored to your specific medical needs. You may be scheduled to see more than one physician. Specialists involved in your care may include:

  • Medical oncologists, who specialize in administering anti-cancer drugs (chemotherapy) effective in treating various cancers.
  • Surgical oncologists, who perform various surgical procedures.
  • Radiation oncologists, who use radiation to destroy cancer cells.
  • Other specialists may be consulted, including pathologists, radiologists, nurses, nutritionists, and social workers.

Important Phone Numbers can be found on the "Department Index" page.

Department Index