Seeking A Second Opinion About Cancer Diagnosis And Treatment
May 09, 2022
Getting a cancer diagnosis is unsettling. It’s news no one ever wants to hear, and it comes with lots of questions, emotions and uncertainty.
As a result, it’s important not to rush into decision-making about your cancer care. There may be value in taking time to fully explore your cancer treatment options – and even get a second opinion if you feel uncertain about your diagnosis and what it may mean.
“Anxiety about a cancer diagnosis can lead patients to make quick decisions. It’s common to feel a sense of urgency, but it’s better to be cautious and take time to consider all your options before jumping into treatment,” said Harsha Ranganath, MD, a board-certified oncologist/hematologist with Franciscan Physician Network Oncology & Hematology Specialists in Lafayette, Indiana.
When Should I Get A Second Opinion For Cancer Diagnosis Or Treatment?
Patients may want to consider getting a second opinion for cancer treatment if they have any uncertainties about an initial cancer diagnosis or recommended treatment – or if they simply would like to gain insights about their care options from a different perspective.
Getting a second opinion from an additional trusted care provider can allow you to:
- Ensure your initial diagnosis is correct
- Learn more about the type, stage, and location of your cancer
- Talk to a physician with specific expertise in your type of cancer
- Explore other cancer treatment options
- Investigate the availability of relevant clinical trials.
How Do I Get A Second Opinion?
Patients could look to an oncologist or hematologist specializing in treating their specific kind of cancer as a good source for a second opinion.
“A specialist will usually better understand the most current and effective treatment options,” said Dr. Ranganath.
Your initial oncologist will likely be able to suggest a specialist with expertise in helping patients with your type of cancer. Or, you can search online for cancer specialists in your area.
What Can I Do To Prepare For A Second Opinion Visit?
First, don’t feel embarrassed about seeking a second opinion. Especially in cancer care, getting a second opinion is common practice – so you should not worry that you’re going to offend your initial care provider.
When you make an appointment with the second physician’s office, ask what records, scans, or test results they may need to have on hand before your appointment – and how best to deliver them. If they are in the same network as your initial provider, they may have immediate access to this information. Otherwise, you may need to help facilitate or give permission for medical record sharing.
What Should I Do If The Second Opinion Disagrees With The First?
If the second provider’s professional diagnosis or treatment recommendation differs from the first provider’s, you should carefully weigh both medical opinions.
While weighing the pros and cons of your different treatment recommendations, consider talking over your choices with your family doctor or other longtime primary care provider. This physician likely knows your health history well and can help you review your cancer treatment options to determine the best fit for your individual care needs.
Are Second Opinions Covered By Insurance?
Most insurance plans typically cover second opinion consultations. Franciscan Health staff members can help patients confirm coverage with their insurance companies before scheduling a second-opinion patient appointment.
