Moment Everything Changes
Imagine sitting in a doctor’s office; your heart races as you await those test results. Then the doctor says those dreadful words: “You have cancer.” In that instant, your world is turned upside down. You could feel fear and confusion, utter bewilderment about what to do next.
The overwhelming tendency is to believe whatever a doctor says should be done immediately. There’s an essential thing you should know: it is okay and, very often, helpful to seek a second opinion. That’s asking another doctor to look at your case and share their thoughts on your diagnosis and your options for treatment.
What is a Second Opinion?
What’s this “second opinion”? I don’t distrust my doctor; I want more information to make the best health-related decisions.
Another way of explaining a second opinion can be presenting your file, your test results, and an account of what your physician has told you regarding your condition to another practitioner. This may mean that one concurs with the opinion you have already arrived at or generates completely different possibilities as to the cause of the problem and the way it should be treated. You learn more in either case.
This is like requesting advice on a major life decision. You might start by asking your parents and then discuss it further with a trusted friend. You are not replacing what your parents have said; you are just getting some more information to aid in deciding.
Why Bother with a Second Opinion?
Now, you may ask: “If I trust my doctor, why do I need another opinion?” That is indeed a good question. Here are a few reasons why a second opinion can be a huge deal:
Cancer is complex. First of all, there are hundreds of different sorts of cancer, and, therefore, new treatments for all of them are being invented constantly. However, it should be clear that even the most experienced physician does not need to be an expert on every sort of cancer. Another doctor may be aware of some new therapy or would have another perspective on your treatment.
Doctors are human. Sometimes, they may mess up or see nothing. A second opinion can help you verify and ensure nothing is left behind.
You have choices! This disease is closely connected with treatment approaches, and it is important to notice that in many cases, there is no single clear answer to how the problem should be solved. Sometimes, a second opinion can help you become aware of all your rights so that you can make the right decision about what you prefer.
Peace of mind! It’s comforting to be able to rely on two doctors’ consensus regarding your diagnosis and recommended course of treatment.
Real Stories, Real Differences
Here’s an actual case illustration of how a second opinion can make all the difference:
Her name is Yashoda, a small-town school teacher, 45 years old. Her doctor identified a lump in her breast and concluded it was cancerous. He immediately advised her to have the whole breast removed. Scared, she was on the verge of accepting the suggestion right away. But her sister intervened and told her to get a second opinion.
Yashoda went to another doctor at a big city hospital. This doctor studied the scans that had been taken. “Well, maybe surgery is unnecessary,” this doctor said. “Maybe a much less invasive procedure will be sufficient.” It would allow Yashoda to retain most of her breasts. She was relieved when she knew she had looked into other options.
Stories like Yashoda’s happen more than you might believe. In fact, research has demonstrated that a second opinion will significantly change the diagnosis, treatment plan, or even the prognosis in about 10% to 20% of all cancer diagnoses. For every ten people who get a second opinion, 1 or 2 might receive significantly different advice, which will change their outcome.
Overcoming Hesitations
Given all these benefits, not enough take a second opinion. So, why and why shouldn’t this fear stand in your way?
“I might hurt my doctor’s feelings.” Relax; good doctors understand that and encourage getting a second opinion. They know it’s about the best care for you, not their feelings.
“It’ll take too long.” Yes, getting a second opinion takes some time. However, it is generally better to delay executing a treatment plan for cancer when one is not fully confident of the direction one is taking. Often, seeking a second opinion would not take a month, and this would not change any outcomes.
“My insurance won’t cover it.” Dismisses this particular common myth about cancer treatment. Many insurance providers cover the costs incurred by seeking a second opinion on cancer diagnosis. If your health plan does, many hospitals and doctors have made it easy for patients to seek such services at a lesser cost. That is invaluable.
“Second opinion, but I have no idea how to obtain one.” This is where the request for assistance comes from. If you are already seeing a doctor, they might know somebody you could see. Other possibilities include asking for ideas from relatives, friends, or support groups. Many major cancer centers provide second opinion services, too.
Making the Most of a Re-Evaluation
Here are some pointers on how to make your second opinion as instructive as possible if you desire one:
- Carry along all your medical records, including test results and any scans. This paperwork will enable the second doctor to get a comprehensive overview of your case.
- Write down your questions beforehand. You tend to forget things as you sit in the doctor’s office.
- Bring a friend or family member with you. They can help remember what the doctor says and provide support.
- Be honest with both doctors. Tell them you are getting a second opinion. This can help them work together for your benefit.
- Don’t rush. Take time to understand and think about the information you get.
When do the Opinions Differ?
It might be different from the first opinion. Sometimes, it can be very confusing and even scary. What do you do then?
Do not panic! This must be understood after every debate; it does not mean the doctor who believes in one fashion is right and the doctor who believes in the other fashion is wrong. There are times when even medicine cannot clearly distinguish right from wrong, and cancer is one good example of this.
It’s okay if you get different opinions! Ask them to consult and discuss each other; that may work out. You can also ask them for clarification on why they still disagree with each other. Understanding their rationale can help you better decide what to do.
You may also want third-party opinions on cases, especially if the first two have diverse opinions or you still need clarification on what to do.
The Bigger Picture: You Are in Control
Never forget that you ultimately decide how you will be treated for your health. Although it is their responsibility to lead and mentor you, you ultimately have the final say in what you decide. Getting a second opinion is included in being an active participant in your care.
It means I can put all my effort into ensuring the best outcome. Caring for a person who has cancer can take a long time and be very overwhelming. Starting this journey confident in knowing you’ve made informed decisions can make a difference.
A Final Thought
Getting a cancer diagnosis has to be among the most awful experiences anyone can have, at least once in their lifetime. Distressing, a patient would seek treatment quickly when it is only natural for a patient to experience feelings of distress; at times, however, there are benefits in taking the patient’s time and catching a second opinion, thus regaining control of a patient’s situation.
In other words, whenever you are constructing a building, you will only begin building the house after ensuring that all the designs have been done accurately. Your health is more important than a house. A second opinion is double-checking those plans.
So if you or someone you care about is facing cancer, please know it’s all right – and in many cases, very helpful – to ask for another view. This isn’t distrust; it’s ensuring you have all the information you need to make the best decisions for your health and life.
Armed with that knowledge, people can make the best choices for their care. In the war against cancer, knowledge is indeed power.
REFERENCES:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000930.htm
https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/colorado-cancer-center/for-patients-families/second-opinion
https://www.shalby.org/the-importance-of-second-opinion-in-cancer-treatment/