When faced with a cancer diagnosis, it’s normal to have questions — and getting a second opinion can provide valuable clarity.
“Patients may feel worried that their desire for another opinion may offend their oncology team or substantially delay their treatment,” says Andrew Salner, MD, the medical director at Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute. “These concerns are rarely true, and we encourage patients to get an additional opinion if that’s what they need.”
Here’s what you need to know about getting one.
5 reasons why a second opinion may be helpful.
After a cancer diagnosis, the treatment path begins, but some need an extra step first.
“There can be many reasons why patients get a second opinion in cancer management,” explains Dr. Salner.
Here are the some common scenarios:
- The cancer diagnosis is complex, with many possible management options.
- The oncologist does not specialize in the specific type of cancer and may be uncertain about the best treatment.
- The cancer has recurred or progressed, with no standard treatments remaining.
- The patient wants to explore possible clinical trials, which may require travel.
- The patient feels uneasy about the initial opinion and wants a second opinion for clarification and validation.
If you’re diagnosed with a rare or complex cancer, a second opinion can be especially beneficial, says Dr. Salner.
“An expert at an National Cancer Institute-designated center might know about newer, more targeted therapies or offer special testing,” he says. “This can help determine the best treatment. A second opinion specialist may also have access to clinical trials for exciting new therapies that aren’t offered by your healthcare system.”
> Related: 10 Questions to Ask When Your Cancer Treatment Ends
When do I get a second opinion, and who should I see?
If you feel uneasy about your initial diagnosis, seeking more answers may help.
“If you’re thinking about a second opinion, it’s particularly timely when considering a new treatment option, whether at the beginning with the initial therapy or later if the cancer recurs or progresses,” explains Dr. Salner.
Finding that new expert doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, the conversation can even start with your doctor.
“Your original team can help identify an expert qualified to deliver the second opinion,” advises Dr. Salner. “You can also call the appropriate cancer center directly to make an appointment.”
> Want more health news? Text StartHere to 85209 to sign up for text alerts
What should I expect in this new consultation?
You can typically make this appointment either in person or virtually.
During this visit, this team will:
- Review your records.
- Examine diagnostic scan images.
- Analyze laboratory test results.
- Have pathologists review biopsy slides and reports.
- Possibly recommend a physical exam or further testing.
- Discuss the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options and recommendations.
“The second opinion team generally validates the initial team’s recommendation,” says Dr. Salner. “Sometimes, they provide information about newer therapies or clinical trials that may interest the patient and family.”
After getting a second opinion, patients usually discuss the options with their local oncologist to decide on the best treatment plan. Sometimes, a third opinion (often virtual) helps make the final decision.
Most patients return to their original oncologist for treatment. The second-opinion doctor may stay involved by receiving progress updates and advising on further decisions as needed.
How to start the conversation.
“Oncology professionals are used to discussing second opinions and are not threatened or offended by this,” says Dr. Salner. “They are happy to help arrange this with the right expert.”
He offers a few tips for getting this second opinion:
- Have a family member or friend with you when you are receiving information about your cancer diagnosis, prognosis and treatment options.
- Ask if you can record the session to help reinforce the information provided.
- Reach back out to your oncology team to answer clarifying questions.
“If you don’t feel comfortable with the information provided or you need further information on your initial cancer diagnosis, please talk to your team,” urges Dr. Salner. “We are here to support you every step of the way.”
