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Is it worth getting a second opinion?
Your doctor is usually comfortable with your decision to get a second opinion. Getting a second opinion is a good idea when you have a medical issue. In fact, you might find that your general doctor will refer you to a specialist or encourage you to see another doctor before you even ask.
Does getting a second opinion offend doctors?
In serious cases, it can even save your life. But, pursuing a second opinion can add more stress to the situation if you are afraid your current doctor could get offended, resulting in a conflict. While it is not impossible for a doctor to get offended, thankfully it happens less than you may fear.
What does a second opinion consist of?

The process of seeking a second opinion can be as simple as getting a referral from your current doctor and making sure your health insurance will pay for it. You will need to gather any biopsy or surgery reports, hospital discharge reports, relevant imaging tests, and information on drugs or supplements you take.
When should a patient get a second opinion?
Timeliness. If you begin treatment and want a second opinion, it may still be possible to get one. However, it is best to look into it soon after a condition or problem is diagnosed. That said, it is never too late, even after treatment—with the exception of surgery—has begun.
Do I have to tell my doctor Im getting a second opinion?
Doctors do it all the time as part of their own process of diagnosing a problem. You should not feel any hesitation or guilt about stating that you want a second opinion. In fact, many physicians will give their patients the names of other specialists and surgeons to talk to without even being asked.

How do I prepare for a second opinion?
Second opinions are especially important if your doctor has recommended surgery or you’ve been diagnosed with a complex or rare health problem….How to prepare for a virtual second opinion
- Collect and review your medical records.
- Develop a list of questions.
- Have an advocate with you during the appointment.
What questions should I ask in a second opinion?
Do I Need a 2nd Opinion? 10 Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Why is this treatment the best option for me?
- What is your experience with this treatment?
- Are there any alternative options?
- What will happen if I wait or don’t have the treatment?
- What are the risks?
- How long can I expect the benefits of this treatment to last?
Do doctors look at your Facebook?
We received 530 responses (response rate 49.1%): 34.9% medical students, 15.5% residents, 49.6% staff physicians. Most had an active Facebook account (74%). Sixty-four participants (13.5%) had used Google to research a patient and 10 (2.1%) had searched for patients on Facebook.
What do you do if your doctor isn’t helping you?
Here are steps you can take if your doctor isn’t listening to you
- Be honest about how you are really feeling. When the doctor says “How are you?” how do you respond?
- Set clear goals and communicate them. Take some time to consider what you want to get out of this appointment.
- Ask the Right Questions.
- Find a new doctor.
Should I get a second opinion?
Getting a second opinion can sometimes lead to a complete change in diagnosis (such as cancerous to benign or vice versa) in non-cancerous growths, inflammatory disorders, infections, cancer and other conditions. A second opinion can change the diagnosis, impacting treatment and prognosis. Jonathan Epstein, M.D. Why Johns Hopkins?
What are the benefits of a pathology second opinion?
Studies show the clinical and financial benefits of obtaining a pathology second opinion. Getting a second opinion can sometimes lead to a complete change in diagnosis (such as cancerous to benign or vice versa) in non-cancerous growths, inflammatory disorders, infections, cancer and other conditions.
Is the radiology report provided by second opinions accurate?
The radiology report provided by SecondOpinions.com was actually more detailed than the report done by the hospital where I had the MRI done. I would recommend the services of SecondOpinions.com to anybody that wants a fast, reliable, and inexpensive second opinion…
Should I get a second opinion on my MRI report?
When I received my original MRI report I knew that some of it was right but there were definitely some things missing so I sent out for a second opinion with SecondOpinions.com and I received my new reports back just as they said I would. Their report was much more detailed and had a listing for all of my symptoms to the letter.