How do I get a second opinion?

Seeking a second opinion means seeing another specialist or general practitioner for their view on your current diagnosis and treatment plan.¹

Reasons for asking for a second opinion include:

You want the diagnosis to be reviewed and confirmed^1,2
You want confirmation that you are receiving the right treatment^1,2
You do not feel comfortable talking to your current specialist^1,2
You want the views of a specialist who has experience with the particular type of cancer that you have³

Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for getting a second opinion:

Ask your general practitioner or current specialist to refer you for a second opinion²
Make sure to go to a specialist in your type of cancer for your second opinion³
Talk with your current specialist to ensure all your relevant medical information will be sent on to the new specialist^2,3
Prepare a list of questions; for example, what other treatments are available for you?
If the advice given is different from your current treatment, ask why²
For a list of more questions, click here

A second opinion may help confirm your treatment plan or may present you with other options, including possibly taking part in a clinical trial;³ however, seeking a second opinion might cause a delay in treatment.¹

Do not worry about possibly upsetting or offending your specialist by asking for a second opinion; this is unlikely to be the case, as specialists often welcome advice from colleagues.^1,2,4

Glossary

Reasons for asking for a second opinion include:

Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for getting a second opinion:

References