Should You Seek a Second Opinion?

The following excerpt from the take home guide of NFCA's "Communicating Effectively with Healthcare Professionals" workshop provides you with practical information to help you get the most out of a second opinion.The most important thing to understand about getting a second opinion is that it is part of standard medical practice in the United States. Asking for a second opinion is not an insult to doctors and it does not imply that they are incompetent. Health care professionals (especially physicians) are trained to consult with their colleagues and share information, test results, observations, and even hunches.

When to Get a Second Opinion

You should seek a second opinion:

• When your care recipient's insurance policy requires it.
• When the physician recommends surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a series of tests.
• When the skills and training of a specialist are needed.
• When you want to be absolutely sure of a diagnosis and/or a particular treatment plan.
• When you feel it is important to get a fresh perspective or you are not comfortable with the physician's care.
• When your loved one has experienced a sudden, radical change for the better or worse.

Other Tips

• Unless it is required by your health insurance, you do not need a physician's "permission" to obtain a second opinion. By telling the caregiving team members that you are seeking a second opinion, however, you may receive suggestions of colleagues who have special expertise with a particular medical problem.
• Ask your loved one's regular physician what issues you should focus on when you get a second opinion.
• Take the appropriate medical records with you for the second opinion consultation.
• Determine what type of follow-up will occur with your loved one's regular physician.

Funding for the development of this resource was provided by the Jacob and Valeria Langeloth Foundation. For more information on this program, visit www.thefamilycaregiver.org.