As we know, cancer is a disease caused by cells that multiply uncontrollably and spread into the surrounding tissues. Many people generally fall for the assumption that the disease can’t be treated. Cancer care can indeed be complex, but developments in cancer care are happening at an unprecedented rate. Also, studies performed between 2014 and 2018 show that the death rates are coming down for more than half of the most common types of cancer in the United States.

The decline in cancer deaths may account for the advancements in the healthcare industry, but people have also moved a step further. Nowadays, people are not solely dependent on the primary cancer diagnosis. They are going for a second opinion before proceeding with the treatment. Experts believe that it makes a huge difference. 

What Does A Second Opinion Mean?

Before going further, let’s find out what a second opinion is and why it becomes so significant? Suppose someone finds that they have cancer, it is evident that making treatment decisions would be difficult. There are multiple treatment options available, and choosing the perfect treatment becomes quite hard. In such scenarios, the role of an expert comes into play. It is crucial to gain information from the right expert with good experience treating your type of cancer. A second medical opinion will help you to decide the best cancer treatment plan you are comfortable with. 

A second opinion could play a critical role in recognizing the type of cancer, evaluating its development, and coming up with a perfect treatment plan. Experts suggest that taking a second opinion on cancer treatment from oncology-focused hospitals like the University Cancer Centers would help the most due to their exceptional performance history and very detailed knowledge. 

When To Go For A Second Opinion? 

Some patients find it quite challenging to inform their primary physicians that they need a 2nd opinion for cancer treatment. Many get worried that their doctors will be unhappy with such decisions, but that’s not the case. Patients should know it is not something new to get a second opinion. As a matter of fact, many physicians encourage their patients to get a cancer second opinion online or offline, whichever suits them. This helps to develop trust in treatment and diagnosis. 

You should get a second opinion in the following scenarios:

• If you fear a misdiagnosis or medical error 
• When the diagnosis is not clear
• When you are observing side effects and have a fear of the unknown risks
• Not getting any positive results from the offered treatment.
• When the treatment plans are just experimental with no known results 
• Not comfortable with your doctor and their treatment plans.

Prostate Cancer Second Opinion 

A type of cancer that begins in the prostate gland cells, which is only found in males, is known as prostate cancer. Formerly, prostate cancer had complicated procedures, but now the disease is more treatable. A second opinion would help you become educated about your cancer and treatment. Firstly, you should consult your primary doctor, who discovered your prostate cancer. Some hospitals may offer modern technologies such as micro-ultrasound to examine your disease.

Breast Cancer Second Opinion

Like some other types of cancer, it is pretty good enough to seek a second opinion. It may be a great option if you consult a breast cancer specialist once if your doctor does not specialize in breast cancer treatment. If you are not able to understand or communicate with your doctor properly, it is the best time to seek a second opinion. 

Why Should You Get A Second Opinion?

When someone gets to know that they have been diagnosed with cancer, they are surrounded by multiple questions. The most general question that affects a person deeply is what will happen to me? And will I survive or not? While others include, like who will provide me with the best treatment? And many more. 

Before preparing a treatment plan, most doctors advise their patients to make the most significant step; the second opinion. A 2017 study revealed that around 90 percent of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients didn’t take a breast cancer second opinion. The reason is the reluctance in the minds of people. We have made a list of a few reasons why getting a second opinion should be the foremost priority of a patient, have a look. 

• For mental peace: We all know that cancer diagnosis is frightening, and a second opinion would help get reassurance even if you’ve got the best team of physicians. A second opinion doesn’t always mean that you would get something different, but it would also help to confirm what your team has suggested. Before commencement of treatment, gaining confidence in yourself is very crucial. Anxiety and questions can cause different kinds of complications s. 
• Modern treatment and technologies: New studies and researches about cancer are going on; we are also finding new methods to treat the disease effectively. While seeking a second opinion, you may find a new way of treatment. 
• Different points of view: Mostly, only a single doctor cannot lead a successful treatment. Instead, a team of nurses, surgeons, oncologists will bring a distinctive approach and points of view to treatment. Studies reveal that following a multi-disciplinary approach would lead to a successful treatment.
• Clinical Trials: It is a type of research that studies new treatments and finds out results on humans. These trials help doctors to find new methods and approaches in diagnosing, preventing, and treating cancer. A second opinion from a reputed hospital might help you get advanced cancer therapies that you won’t find anywhere. 
• Possibility of hope: The first opinion you get might fill you with fear and anxiety, but having a second opinion from another doctor might offer some hope.

What To Expect From A Second Opinion?

Before looking for a second opinion, it is imperative to find what all things your policy covers. Sometimes, you may get a second opinion from another doctor, and it becomes crucial to give them the exact details of your diagnosis and treatment plan. Ensure that you have copies of the following listed documents.

• If you had surgery or a biopsy, you must have a copy of your pathology report.
• A copy of the operative report in cases of surgeries 
• A copy of the discharge summary if you were admitted to the hospital
• A report of your doctor’s current treatment plan 
• A list of all your drugs and medicines as some can have long term side-effects.

You can also ask for your copies of reports from your doctor’s office. If the hospital or doctor’s office has one, some can get the reports by contacting either the medical records department or the online portal. 

You would love to know that University Cancer Centers are the most preferred among patients to get a second opinion. We offer customized cancer treatments and affordable treatment options. If you have more questions to ask about cancer second opinion, you must visit the University Cancer Centers.