Getting a Second Opinion on Cancer Treatment
It can be hard to make a choice about what kinds of treatment to have for cancer. You may want to have a second opinion. This means having another doctor review your diagnosis and treatment options.
Why get a second opinion?
It's vital that you feel good about your treatment choices. A second opinion can help you make your decisions.
When doctors plan cancer treatments, they consider:
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The type and stage of your cancer
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How likely the cancer can be cured with each treatment
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How the treatment will affect your daily life
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Your overall health
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Your personal preferences
A second doctor can review all of these factors. He or she can help you make sure of your decisions.
Is it a problem to get a second opinion?
Many health insurers will pay for a second opinion. Some even require a second opinion. And in most cases, a short delay in treatment will not reduce the chance that it will work.
How to get a second opinion
You have a number of ways to find a doctor who can give a second opinion. These include:
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Your primary care doctor. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a specialist. This may be a surgeon. Or it may be a medical or radiation oncologist. These doctors often work together at cancer centers and hospitals.
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Your cancer specialist. He or she may be able to refer you to another specialist.
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NCI Contact Center. This is a service of the National Cancer Institute. They can tell you how to find cancer treatment centers. You can contact them at 800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237), or at their website.
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Commission on Cancer. This is a program from the American College of Surgeons. They approve medical centers and hospitals that provide the best cancer care. You can search for an approved medical center.
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American Medical Association (AMA). This group has an online Doctor Finder service. The AMA also has a directory of the medical groups in each state. This can help you to find doctors in your state.
Other options for a second opinion include:
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A local medical society
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A nearby hospital or medical school
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A local cancer advocacy group
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Other people who have had cancer
Talk with your healthcare provider to find local resources like these.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Hanrahan, John, MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Levy, Adam S, MD
© 2019 The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.