Getting a Second Opinion

They always say get a second opinion, especially when considering treatment recommendations for medical conditions. But what does that really mean? How do you go about getting a second opinion?

What is a second opinion?
A second opinion is usually provided by a specialist who will evaluate an individual’s health and physical information along with symptoms and diagnostic test results. Based upon this evaluation, the specialist will make their recommendations for treatment, which may be the same or different than the first physician’s opinion.

Why should I bother to get a second opinion?
Even if you have a great relationship with your OB/GYN or primary care physician, you should take the time to get a second opinion. Patients want the most effective treatment with the least amount of pain. Medical advances are happening every day and no single doctor has the time to become an expert in every treatment innovation in their specialty. And, different types of doctors (e.g., primary care, OB/GYN, GYN surgeon) - and even the same types of physicians with different backgrounds in terms of their training, mentors, affiliations or research interests - will think about medical conditions differently. As a result, physicians can approach the same disease from different perspectives.

Getting another doctor's opinion can provide you with different treatment options or confirm the original physician’s recommendations. Getting a second opinion can give you piece of mind, that you have considered all of the available treatments for your condition - and can make the best choice for you.

What circumstances might determine the need for a second opinion? ¹⁴

• If you’ve been given no treatment options or only one treatment option that is highly invasive
• If there is something unique or unusual about your case or you have a rare condition
• If you live outside of an urban/suburban area
• If you are a member of an HMO
• If you suspect there is a conflict of interest between the recommended treatment and the doctor (e.g., financial benefit, enrollment in a clinical trial)
• If the technology used in the proposed treatment(s) could be outdated
• If you have concerns about potential risks and side effects
• If you are uncomfortable with your physician’s experience or expertise with the treatment(s)

Will the first doctor be upset?
Your doctor doesn't want to lose you as a patient to another physician. So, depending on your doctor’s confidence and professionalism, he or she may or may not be completely supportive of your decision to seek a second opinion. On the other hand, medical professionals collaborate with one another frequently. Sometimes collaboration happens in formal group meetings, and other times it is an informal phone call or a conversation with colleagues. Because collaboration is a standard part of a medical practice, and because collaboration fuels medical innovation, your doctor shouldn’t be threatened or upset that you want a second opinion.

How do I find another doctor?
The Internet provides many resources to locate a doctor with expertise in your medical condition. Things to consider:

• Find a doctor not affiliated with your original doctor (not in the same practice or medical group).
• Consider selecting a physician with a deeper specialization in your specific condition or disease.
• Research potential treatment options, and then use the Internet to find a doctor who specializes in each of the treatment options available for your condition. Surgeons listed on this site’s surgeon locator have been specially trained to perform minimally invasive procedures with the da Vinci Surgical System
• Experts affiliated with research and teaching institutions (like university medical centers) attract talented doctors from all over the world.
• Disease-specific organizations or support groups may know specific doctors that are researching and publishing clinical data on the most recent treatment advances.
• Clinical publications (and their bibliographies) can also help you find these specialists with expertise in the latest treatment advances.
• When getting recommendations from family and friends, ask for specifics about why exactly they recommend a specific doctor - is it a friendly bedside manner or because the doctor has specialized training.

What does the other doctor need?
A consulting physician needs all of your medical records, lab test results, and images (e.g., x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc.). Even with that information, they may order additional tests to make the most accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendation for you.

How much does it cost?
You should check with your medical insurance provider - some treatment recommendations for elective (non-emergency) procedures require a second opinion before approving insurance coverage. There may be a consultation fee and you will be charged for additional tests ordered by your doctor. Charges to copy medical records are common (doctors must keep the originals). However, some information may be available in a digital format (e.g., PDF) if your doctor has electronic medical records. The costs in time, money, and effort to get a second opinion should help you gain peace of mind and confidence in your treatment decision.