Seek Answers, Feel Confident in Your Care
The physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers regularly provide second opinions for patients interested in finding out more information about their diagnosis. Since most insurance plans cover a second opinion examination (make sure to check your plan), taking time to find out more about your specific case is worth the time and effort.
It’s understandable that a patient would want to be absolutely certain that they have the most appropriate and confirmed treatment plan before beginning any treatment. The oncologists at Comprehensive may confirm your treatment plan or offer differing opinions on a treatment plan you’ve already been given.
Timelines for Getting Second Opinions on Cancer Diagnoses
When considering whether to get a second opinion, the question becomes whether there is enough time to get one. With some cancers, especially ones diagnosed in late stages, treatment decisions should be made quickly. If a second opinion is desired, it should be done immediately. With most cancers however, there is typically some time available to think about options. While there may not be immediate urgency for some cancers when diagnosed at an early stage, it is a patient’s right to get a second opinion and anyone should talk to their doctor right away.
With regard to talking to the doctor currently managing treatment —and the doctor who has made the diagnosis — some patients may find it difficult to ask for a second opinion. Patients should be aware that it is common to get a second opinion and doctors are comfortable with the request.
How to Start the Second Opinion Process
Before looking for a second opinion, make sure to contact your insurance company to learn about what the insurance policy covers. In some cases, you may have to get a second opinion from another doctor who is part of your health plan before the plan will pay for your treatment
It’s important to be able to give the new doctor the exact details of your diagnosis and planned treatment. Make sure you have the following information handy and always keep copies for yourself:
- A pathology report from any biopsy or surgery
- The operative report if surgery was conducted
- Hospital discharge summary if treated in a hospital
- A current treatment plan or prospective plan given as an option
- A list of all drugs being taken, drug doses, and when they were taken
Questions for Your Oncologist During a Second Opinion Consultation
Should you decide to get a second opinion regarding a cancer diagnosis, there are questions you should ask the oncologist you visit with to ensure you will better understand your condition and what would occur during treatment. Your cancer care team at Comprehensive may not know all of the answers to all of your questions during your consultation. Should they decide to put a treatment plan in place, any previously unanswered questions will be addressed. Some questions should include:
- What the second opinion doctor thinks about your test results
- How the second opinion doctor’s treatment plan would differ from your current doctor’s plan
- What treatments the second opinion doctor has advised for patients with your diagnosis
- Does the second opinion doctor’s practice have access to clinical research studies for your cancer, if it becomes necessary
Take Notes During Your Second Opinion Visit
As a cancer patient, you will receive a large amount of important information in a short time. It’s a good idea to take notes during each of your doctor’s appointments. One easy way to stay organized is to purchase a binder that includes paper for notes as well as pockets where you can keep information given to you.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
The physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers are glad to provide second opinion consultations for patients in need. Additionally, the practice has access to clinical research that may provide treatment options not available through your current oncologist. For a complete list of clinical research studies currently being conducted at Comprehensive Cancer Centers, please click here. To schedule an appointment for a second opinion at Comprehensive, call 702-952-3350.
The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
