Second Opinions on Cancer Diagnosis at CMOH

After a cancer diagnosis, seeking a second opinion is not only wise, but often encouraged before making a decision about which oncologist and the specific cancer treatment plan you will move forward with.

While accurately diagnosing cancer and offering the optimal treatment options is the goal of every oncologist, the approaches they take may differ. A second opinion can confirm what you learned and discussed for a treatment plan with the first oncologist. It can also open up other options than you thought you had. It’s worth the conversation even if you choose to stay with the first oncologist you consulted with.

What is a Medical Second Opinion?

A medical second opinion is simply getting another doctor’s opinion before you begin treatment. To do this, you will meet with a different oncologist — either at the same practice or at a completely different oncology practice. This new specialist will go over your test results, talk about your personal situation, and then offer their opinion regarding the cancer diagnosis and recommended treatments. There may be some additional tests requested by the oncologist giving the second opinion.

While the internet can provide a lot of information, it’s best to get a second opinion from a board-certified oncologist. Getting a second opinion from a reputable oncologist is the best way to make sure you understand your diagnosis and have explored all of your options thoroughly.

Why Get a Second Opinion?

There are various reasons to consider getting a second opinion. Some of the benefits include:

Feeling comfortable with your care team.

Since you will regularly interact with the members of your cancer care team, it’s important that you feel comfortable with them in every way. Are they knowledgeable? Empathetic? Good communicators? Do they meet all your needs? A second opinion could help when deciding who’s best to handle your cancer treatment.

Access to different treatments.

Some oncology facilities may have access to treatment technologies that aren’t available at other cancer centers. Talk to the oncologist about the technologies that will be included in your treatment and how they compare. Second opinions might also result in access to clinical trials that are available for your specific type of cancer.

Empowerment and Control.

Getting a second opinion can help you become more informed about all the available treatment options, which can therefore make you feel more in control of your health.

Peace of mind.

A second oncologist will not only be able to confirm your diagnosis, but they will also be able to recommend treatment options to help you make the best decision.

Will I Have to Pay for a Second Opinion?

In most cases, your second opinion will be covered by your insurance plan. In fact, some insurance plans will require a second opinion when a cancer diagnosis is made. For specific information about your insurance coverage, contact your carrier.

What to Expect at Your Second Opinion Appointment

Most oncologists conducting a second opinion appointment will want to see:

The details of your diagnosis
Blood test results
Biopsy results
All imaging studies
Your recommended treatment plan

If other documentation or tests are needed, the oncologist’s office will let you know.

After reviewing this information, the oncologist giving the second opinion will let you know whether or not they agree with the diagnosis and recommended treatment. If there are other options available for your type and stage of cancer that were not offered already, these can be discussed as options, including the pros and cons of each path.

Will My Oncologist be Insulted if I Get a Second Opinion?

Remember, it’s common for patients to get a second opinion so doctors are very comfortable with the request. In addition, patients should not worry that a doctor will be upset if they decide to seek treatment elsewhere.

At Consultants in Medical Oncology and Hematology, our cancer specialists, nurses, and support staff want you to seek treatment where you're most comfortable. We invite you to schedule an appointment with one of our oncologists for a second opinion at one of our convenient locations in the greater Philadelphia area of Broomall and Glen Mills. We’ll be happy to discuss your diagnosis, the treatment options, and the supportive services available through our practice to help as you progress through treatment.

Our patient schedulers will match you with the oncologist who will be best for your needs, or let us know if you have a specific person in mind based on a friend or family member's recommendation.

Cancer Diagnosis Second Opinions