Four Reasons To Get A Second Opinion

A different perspective on a medical issue could be the key to getting a better outcome

Being diagnosed with cancer or any serious medical condition is unnerving, to say the least, and you might be tempted to immediately do whatever your doctor recommends. But what if there are other treatment options? What if another doctor could give insight? Seeking a second opinion gives you – and your primary doctor – access to that information.

1 YOUR DOCTOR WANTS YOU TO GET ONE

Patients often think seeking a second opinion might insult their doctor. But the truth is all doctors have patients who get second opinions, and all doctors have patients who see them for that second opinion. So they don’t take it personally. In fact oncologists often consult with colleagues when making diagnoses, especially on potentially complicated cases.

When you go for a second opinion, your new doctor will likely reach one of three conclusions:

1. Agree with your original diagnosis and treatment.

2. Agree with the original diagnosis but offer a different treatment plan.