No matter how much you trust your doctor, a second opinion may be the right decision.
Medical diagnosis and treatments can be very complex. With so many variables, it’s nearly impossible for anyone, even highly-trained doctors, to get it right every time.
Despite the advancements in medical knowledge and screening technology, nothing is 100% accurate. That’s why so many people choose to get second opinions.
Second opinions in cancer treatment: why it matters so much
The topic of second opinions is pertinent to nearly every area of your health and wellbeing, but it is especially important when it comes to cancer diagnosis because the way we currently treat cancer can be aggressive. For this reason, avoiding misdiagnosis is especially important making second opinions all the more necessary.
So while these principles apply to every area of health and screenings, we’ll focus particularly on second opinions as they relate to cancer.
The benefits of a second opinion
No one, no matter how well educated and experienced, is right 100% of the time. Medical issues are so complex, that having complete accuracy is nearly impossible, but the more information we have, the better.
Think of it this way: a person conducting a survey polls as many people as possible to get the most accurate information. They don’t survey one person and become satisfied with the results. They survey hundreds, thousands, or millions of people to reach the most reliable conclusion.
The same principle applies to your medical diagnosis. The more opinions you get, the better informed you will be. In this case, a second opinion greatly enhances the chances of accurate conclusions.
Although it seems obvious, second opinions generally create a few scenarios. They either confirm the original diagnosis, bring to light new considerations, or both.
If the second opinion confirms the diagnosis, it will give you better clarity on how you should proceed. Say your second diagnosis confirms prostate cancer. You can now move forward with cancer treatments without any lingering concerns.
When you should absolutely get a second opinion
If, for whatever reason, you simply don’t get along with your doctor or don’t feel you’re getting the best advice, you owe it to yourself to get a second opinion. If your doctor doesn’t have much experience in the area, or if you are diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, then a second opinion is wise. The rarer the cancer, the less likely your doctor will be able to give an expert diagnosis.
Don’t worry about offending a professional doctor
Many people worry that when they get a second opinion, they’ll offend their doctor. A professional doctor knows the importance of second opinions; in many cases, they will recommend you get one to begin with.
How to get a second opinion
If you decide to get a second opinion for any diagnosis, the process is usually simple and straightforward. Many insurance companies cover second opinions, and some even require a second opinion before cancer treatments.
Ask your doctor for a referral to a specialist. They will be able to recommend someone in your area who can deliver a second opinion on your health.
Never hesitate to get a second opinion. It’s your health and your life, so you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to get as much information as possible. No matter what the second opinion tells you, you’ll be able to move forward with renewed confidence.
Get clear, accurate health screenings
Contact POM MRI and Imaging Centers today to learn more about our extensive line of screening services. We can help you get the information you need to make the right decision for your health and your future.