If you have been diagnosed with cancer, seeking a second opinion will allow you to learn more about your cancer type and make truly informed decisions about treatment.
It is often recommended that all cancer patients should consider seeing at least one additional expert after an initial diagnosis. Getting a second opinion is an important part of becoming educated about a cancer diagnosis and treatment options and will also give you the opportunity to find a physician you are comfortable with, someone you respect, and who you believe is paying attention to your needs.
When getting a second opinion on a cancer diagnosis, key questions to ask include:
- What is your interpretation of my diagnosis and stage?
- What treatment options do you recommend and why?
- What are the potential risks and side effects of each treatment option?
- Are there any clinical trials that might be relevant to my case?
- How does your recommended treatment plan compare to the standard of care?
- Can you explain the reasoning behind your diagnosis and treatment recommendations in detail?
In addition to the questions above, remember to bring all relevant medical records, including pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment summaries to your second opinion appointment.
If you, or a loved one, has recently been diagnosed with cancer and would like information on treatment options, or a second opinion, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team today.