Hello Amanda.
You have found the right place for information and support as you and your family take this difficult journey with Head & Neck Cancer. Many good people, both cancer survivors and caregivers, will share their experiences with you and answer as many questions as we can. Can you tell us where your Dad will be treated, I see you are in Ontario, Canada.
You were asking re the time frame for Dr. appointments and diagnostic tests. My husband was treated at London Regional Cancer Centre. He was seen by the entire Head & Neck Team 3 days after receiving the diagnosis from our Dentist who did the original biopsy. At that appointment all disciplines that would be involved with his care spoke with us explaining their roles, ENT surgeon, Radiation Oncologist, Medical Oncologist, Dental, Dietician, Social Work. CT scan was booked and surgery after that appointment. Surgeon met with us following CT scan to discuss the findings and the surgery that would be done. Surgery took place 2 weeks from initial appointment. Treatment with radiation and chemotherapy started 7 weeks following the surgery.
There is a lot of excellent information on the OCF main site and also a good explanation re staging of the disease at www.oncologychannel.com/headneck/staging.shtml
Courage and strength to all of you as face the challenges ahead.