Second opinions empower patients, allowing them to advocate and decide on their treatment plan. Patients and their families walk away with valuable information to help them make their decision and peace of mind knowing they have sought expert advice. So, why is it less common for patients to ask for a second opinion?
“Though it may seem like you’re doubting your diagnosing physician, that’s actually not the case. It is considered best practice to provide and offer second opinions to patients,” said Anthony Shields, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist, associate center director of Clinical Sciences and member of the Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. “Physicians encourage patients to seek second opinions. These appointments can help confirm a diagnosis, provide a more accurate diagnosis or reveal more treatment options.”
Some reasons patients and their families may not ask for a second opinion are:
- They may feel emotionally overwhelmed. After hearing the word “cancer,” patients may feel too emotionally overwhelmed to actively seek out and manage the logistics of a second opinion.
- Patients may not be aware that it is best practice to receive a second opinion. They may not know the benefits of receiving a second opinion or that it’s common and often encouraged by physicians.
- Avoiding the stress caused by logistical barriers. The patient may not want to go through the hassle of scheduling additional appointments to get an additional opinion on their diagnosis. At some institutions, patients and caregivers may be responsible for gathering and transferring their medical records, which can add to the anxiety and stress they are already feeling. Sometimes, it’s just the thought of physically going to another health care institution.
- They may feel a sense of urgency to start treatment right away. This thought may prevent patients from taking the time to seek a second opinion. Some may fear that a delay in starting treatment can negatively impact their prognosis.
- They have already begun treatment. Though it may seem like it’s too late to seek a second opinion while going through cancer treatment, it’s never too late. Sometimes, patients are not informed that newer therapies or clinical studies are available if these treatments are not offered at the institution where they are currently seeking care.
- Dealing with insurance coverage could be a hassle. As insurance can be complex, this can be a concern for patients. They may be thinking, ‘Will my insurance cover another oncologist visit? What if no one else takes my insurance?’ Or they don’t want to deal with the possibility of rejection, delays or confusion.
Why patients should seek a second opinion
Here are some reasons why cancer patients should seek a second opinion appointment at Karmanos, whether they’re newly diagnosed, have already started a treatment plan or are facing a recurrence of cancer.
A second opinion can provide a clearer understanding of the patient’s diagnosis and therapy options, leading to increased confidence in the path they choose for treatment. At Karmanos, additional treatment options that may not be offered at other cancer centers include:
- Internationally renowned oncologists: As a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karmanos has some of the world’s best oncologists. These doctors not only treat cancer but also study the disease, look for better ways to treat it and lead many studies that lead to new cancer drugs.
- A team of physicians focused on one type of cancer: Each Karmanos physician is a member of one of 15 multidisciplinary teams (MDTs). These specialists devote their careers to fighting one type of cancer. Physicians collaborate and share a passion to reduce time and eliminate doubt among patients by reviewing every case.
- Clinical trials: Karmanos has one of the nation’s most robust clinical trials programs. They offer clinical trial studies for all types of cancers and many different disease stages. There are even clinical studies for new therapies offered at Karmanos for patients just starting treatment after a diagnosis and for patients who have been receiving cancer treatments for years.
- Newly FDA-approved therapies: Karmanos has access to therapies that are just becoming available to patients outside of clinical studies, giving more patients access to treatments that may not be offered elsewhere.
- More leading-edge therapies: This includes advanced surgical options, radiation therapies, precision medicine, targeted therapies and more.
“Together with the oncologist who first examined the patient’s case, we recommend care that reflects the latest thinking from all our various specialties. So, patients don’t just have the advice of one doctor, but an entire team of doctors,” explained Dr. Shields.
Second opinion appointments at Karmanos in 3 easy steps
Karmanos’ model of putting the patient first and removing as many barriers as possible makes it almost a thoughtless process for patients and their families to get a second opinion.
- Call 1-800-KARMANOS or visit karmanos.org/secondopinon to complete an online appointment request form. An oncology navigator will contact the patient or caregiver within 24-48 hours to start the process. They’ll get all the patient’s records needed so the nurse and doctor can thoroughly review the case. This swift process allows patients to get an appointment within seven days.
- Receive a call from an oncology nurse. They’ll review medical history with the patient or caregiver and ensure they are matched with a specialist suited to their needs.
- Within seven days, come to your appointment. Patients will sit down with an oncologist who is an expert in treating and researching their cancer. This specialist will already be familiar with their case. They’ll answer questions and can provide guidance and recommendations so the patient and their family can make the best choice for their care.
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