Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m interested in coming to your alternative cancer and immune recovery clinic. Where do I start?

A: The first place to start is by calling us at 520-751-0100. The office will get you started with the necessary paperwork.

One thing you can do to speed up the process is to get a copy of your medical records. You absolutely have a right to have a copy of your records. The doctor’s office may charge you a copying fee. You’ll need the following:

Pathology or cytopathology reports. We do not need to see the “films.” We only need the reports.

Your lab work over the last year. If you have had tumor marker tests, be sure and send those as well.

A recent “history.” This is the part of the chart that tells the story of your disease progression.

Q: What’s the process after I send my records?

A: We will schedule a telephone consultation with Roberta Shepard-Mardocco, a certified adult nurse practitioner and the administrator of Immune Recovery and Wellness. Ms. Shepard-Mardocco will be able to answer your clinical questions. She will also order additional lab work when needed. The charge for this professional consultation is $150 which is fully refundable if you decide to attend our clinic.

Q: Does IRW own the laboratory, or have a financial interest in the labs ordered?

A: Absolutely not. IRW derives no income from the labs.

Q: Are the labs expensive?

A: Typically, yes. Any labs that can be ordered in your own network should be. The labs we order that are not available in your network are extremely sophisticated probes into your core systems, especially the immune system. When we know what’s going on within the complex machinery of your immune system (T cell subset, B cell subsets, Th1, Th2, cytokines, etc.) we are equipped to develop an individualized program that addresses the underlying causes of your illness. Again, IRW derives no income from labs. You will be provided with lab costs before they are ordered.

Q: Do I need to come to the clinic just to have the labs drawn?

A: Fortunately no. The laboratory is able to send “kits” which contain instructions for you, and your local lab. The specimens are shipped back to the lab in special containers, typically via “overnight” courier. The best case scenario occurs when we have lab results before you arrive at the clinic but we can also receive them during your first week at the program.

Q: Do I spend the night at the clinic?

A: No, we have arranged special pricing with Residence Inn in Tucson. Please see During Your Stay for further information.

Q: Can you give me additional information about the modalities your clinic uses?

A: For a listing and description of the therapies included in our alternative healing program, please see Treatment.