The Cancer Diagnostic Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute helps speed up the diagnostic evaluation for people who have signs or symptoms that could be cancer, such as a lump or an abnormal finding on an imaging scan.
We work with patients and referring clinicians to review medical history, coordinate appropriate testing, and help find answers as quickly as possible.
Our Process
Our goal is to help patients get a timely diagnosis. The Cancer Diagnostic Program team will:
- Review medical records to confirm this program is appropriate
- Schedule appointments as quickly as possible
- Complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, with input from cancer specialists
- Share findings and recommended next steps with the referring clinician
- Connect patients with the appropriate Dana-Farber cancer specialist(s), if needed
What To Expect
We aim to schedule patients within five business days of referral. After an appointment is scheduled, our team helps collect medical records. In some cases, we may also help arrange diagnostic tests in advance.
During the visit, the team may order additional tests, such as:
- Advanced imaging (MRI, CT, PET scan, or bone scan)
- Endoscopy
- Biopsy (tissue sampling)
Regardless of the outcome, we will send a summary of findings and recommended next steps to the referring clinician. If your evaluation confirms cancer, our team can help schedule an appointment with the appropriate Dana-Farber specialist.