Things To think About When Seeking A Second Opinion
Sometimes when we go to the doctors and feel like there is something wrong – we might not get the answer we are hoping for. In most cases, a doctor will be able to give you all of your options and ensure that you get the care that you need. From time to time, it is worth getting a second opinion.
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash
When Is A Second Opinion Useful?
For usual health care, you most likely won’t need a second opinion.
Here is where getting a second opinion, or booking a private test might be worth it:
*While waiting for surgery, you might want to hear about less risky, or cheaper alternatives
*If you aren’t sure about how the tests work
*If you’re going to want a private ultrasound, other scans or tests
*You are uncomfortable with your diagnosis or treatment options
*You want more information about your options
How Do You Get A Second Opinion?
When you are having a discussion about your care, you can ask your doctor for a number of other experts in the field. Ideally, doctors that they are not associated with – but have heard of.
Second opinions might feel to you that you are offending your doctor, but often it is expected in more serious circumstances.
If you don’t want to discuss this with your doctor, you can talk to your medical insurance provider, they usually have a list of doctors for specific specialties. They can also give local university hospitals and medical societies.
If you are talking about surgery options with your doctor, you can ask for your surgeon’s name and for a list of alternative surgeons that aren’t on the same team or in the same location.
How Can You Use A Second Opinion?
Research and gathering information is the only way to make sure you are getting the care you want and need. You can discuss it with your primary care doctor or a specialist of your choice.
It is essential that you have all of the information when it comes to your treatment choices. There are usually a number of testing options that you can ask for. They, in most cases, will be useful for you.
When the doctors and surgeons all agree that this is the best course of action, then your decision will be made a lot easier. However, even when doctors work to the same guidelines, there might be a difference in experience levels, knowledge, and style. Opening up more treatment options for you to investigate.
You can discuss all of the options with your primary care doctor and see if they can help you plan your treatment and care. You can also discuss your care with other care providers if it meets what you need. Physiatrists, physical therapists, and alternative medicine doctors are all available to you.
When you seek second opinions and have consults elsewhere, it is essential that you know what your insurance covers. So you will be able to keep track of the costs too. It is important that you are happy and informed when it comes to your health, and a second opinion can help that happen.
