You need a breast cancer second opinion. Here’s how to get one.
By ShareMD Connect
If you or a loved one has recently received a cancer diagnosis, getting a second opinion should be top of mind.
In 2017, a study by the Mayo Clinic showed that 21% of patients who sought a second opinion left with a completely new diagnosis, and 66% were considered partly correct, but refined or redefined by the second doctor.
Errors in testing, pathology readings, doctor interpretations, or biopsies can change your outcomes, so unlike many other conditions, getting a second opinion on a cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is both common and expected.
Getting a second opinion may result in:
- A change in your cancer diagnosis
- Finding a cancer specialist that offers more knowledge about your diagnosis
- Securing access to new and alternate types of treatment
Exploring all of your treatment options is a critical part of your cancer journey. Knowing the choices - and making the right one for you - depends on having information that can only be achieved with a second opinion.
How to get a second opinion
A cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, but getting a second opinion doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
1. Ask your doctor for a recommendation
Don’t worry about offending your doctor. They may be the most thoughtful, genuine person you’ve ever met, but that shouldn’t stop you from seeking a second opinion. Your doctor wants the best for you. And if he or she tries to discourage you from getting a second opinion, they are not the doctor you want on this journey. Try to start the conversation by asking questions like, “If you were in my shoes, who would you see for a second opinion?” Or even, “I’d like to get a second opinion. Can you help me find someone?”
2. Research the leading specialists in your area
Someone who specializes in your specific cancer is likely to be more up-to-date on research, clinical options, and treatment outcomes than a doctor who does not. You can, and should, ask your doctor for specialist recommendations. But you can also search for this information yourself. Try looking to these sources for provider information:
- American Board of Medical Specialties
- American Medical Association
- American College of Surgeons
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
3. Get a referral from your doctor if required by your insurance
Depending on your insurance, you may need a referral from your provider. While you shouldn’t be fearful of asking your doctor directly, this is something you can call about after your appointment. Office staff should be able to provide you with a referral, and if that feels more comfortable to you than asking the doctor directly, it’s a perfectly acceptable approach.
4. Gather all of the relevant health information you’ll need
Prepare everything you have including previous biopsy and/or surgery reports, lab work, discharge papers, imaging results, and a list of any medications you take. Having all of this handy will make it easy for a second doctor to review your case. Check to see if your second opinion provider wants this information sent over ahead of time, or if they’ll expect you to bring hard copies to the appointment. You may need to contact medical records offices and sign information release forms, so don’t put this step off until the day before your appointment.
5. Remember that you’re not doing anything out of the ordinary
As Anees Chagpar, MD, MBA, MPH, a breast surgeon at Yale Medicine puts it: “Second opinions are commonplace these days… at the end of the day, you want to be sure that you are finding the right team for you, and that you are comfortable with the diagnosis and treatment plan you are being offered.” Asking for a second opinion is normal and expected - it shouldn’t be a source of stress. You are your best advocate throughout this journey, so don’t be afraid to speak up for what you need.
6. Ask for help when you need it
Getting a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, but it’s vital that you explore all of your options and learn as much as you can as soon as possible.
If you don’t know where to start, or how to get a second opinion, just ask. Ask your doctor, nurse, or office staff what steps are required. And if you aren’t sure if a second opinion is right for you, ShareMD can help. Start by taking our assessment, which will tell you if you’re a candidate for a second opinion. Then, if you find you are, contact one of our nurses to get set up with a qualified provider in your area.
Physicians don’t always have all the answers, especially when a cancer is presenting unusually or it’s a complex diagnosis. A second opinion could result in a faster path to the right treatment options or stop unnecessary treatments. And even if it doesn’t change your outcomes, a second opinion will bring you peace of mind and confidence in both your doctor and your treatment plan.