TriangleSecond opinions and appointments
Whether to get a second opinion, how to ask, and what to walk in with.
This is not clinical evidence and not medical advice. It does not replace your care team. Discuss anything here with your clinician before you act on it. Product questions are on the FAQ.
Should I get a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis?
Many people do. Another specialist reviews the materials in your case before treatment starts. They may agree with the plan or suggest changes. Either way you leave with more information. I did this before surgery; the list of surgeons only got short after I had read their trial histories.
Will my doctor be offended if I ask for a second opinion?
Usually not. It is common, and most doctors welcome it. Many insurers pay for one. Some require it, particularly before surgery.
How do I ask for a second opinion?
Involve your current doctor — they have to make your records, results, and imaging available to the second one. It helps to say you want to be as informed as possible about your options. If they cannot suggest a specialist, NCI’s Cancer Information Service can.
Can I get a second opinion on my pathology?
Yes. Another pathologist can review your slides. You will need the slides or paraffin block from the original lab. Call the second institution first about availability, cost, and shipping.
What should I bring to an appointment?
Every medicine you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. A written list of questions. A short account of current conditions, past surgeries, and illnesses. Your own copies of recent results, if you have them.
What should I ask if a test is recommended?
How it is done, how it will feel, what you need to do to prepare, and how you will get the results. If a treatment is recommended, ask about the options.
What should I do after the appointment?
Ask for written instructions before you leave. If they do not make sense at home, call. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Call the office for test results and ask what to do about them.
Does asking questions make a difference?
AHRQ says patients who ask questions and make sure they understand the answers tend to get more timely, accurate diagnoses and better outcomes.
Walk into your next visit knowing your file →
Sources
- NCI: Finding Health Care Services — Getting a Second OpinionSecond opinions are very common; most doctors welcome them; many insurers pay for or require them; involve your doctor so records can be shared; NCI's Cancer Information Service can help find a specialist.
- NCI: Surgical Pathology ReportsA second opinion on pathology requires the slides or paraffin block; contact the institution about availability, cost, and shipping.
- AHRQ: Be More Engaged in Your HealthcareBring all medicines including supplements, written questions, and knowledge of your conditions; ask how a test is done, how it feels, how to prepare, and how results arrive; get written instructions; call if unclear; don't stop medicines without talking to your doctor or pharmacist; patients who ask questions tend to get more timely, accurate diagnoses.