The Benefits of Getting a Second Opinion for Cancer
Getting a cancer diagnosis is scary. There are so many questions— and so many decisions. That’ s why getting a second opinion can help you be certain that you’ re on the best treatment path. And patient advocacy groups generally recommend that when there’ s any question about your diagnosis, you should seek a second opinion.
Your doctor wants what’ s best for you, however, a second opinion may give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing experts agree on your treatment plan. Additional reasons for getting a second opinion include:
• You have a rare or unusual cancer.
• You think another treatment might be available.
• You think your doctor is underestimating how serious your cancer is.
• You want to be sure you’ ve explored all options.
• Your doctor gives you a few different treatment options.
• Your doctor isn’ t a specialist in your type of cancer.
• Your doctor isn’ t sure what is wrong with you.
• Your doctor tells you there is uncertainty about the type or stage of cancer you have.
• Your insurance company asks you to get another opinion before you start treatment.
• You’ re having trouble understanding and communicating with your doctor, or you want your options explained by someone else.