Do I Need a Second Opinion?

You trust your doctor with your health. So, is it right to get a second opinion from another physician?

There are times when you might need a second opinion. You may need a second opinion in cases where you receive a significant diagnosis or extensive treatment plan. You may also want to find out if there are other treatment options or you are not satisfied with the recommendations. In these situations, a second opinion is fair and prudent. 

Do I Need a Second Opinion?

A significant study at the Mayo Clinic in 2017 found that second opinions are invaluable. Researchers evaluated charts of 286 patients who were seen for a second opinion. The results, published in the Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice, were compelling. 

• For 61% of patients, a second opinion clarified a diagnosis.
• In 21% of cases, the second opinion found a new or different final diagnosis.
• And in 12% of cases, the second opinion confirmed the original diagnosis and treatment plan.

When Should I Consider a Second Opinion?

Your health is an important matter. When faced with a significant health problem, you have the right and responsibility to make informed choices about the treatment plan. 

Consider a second opinion when:

• The recommended treatment is expensive or extensive.
• The recommended treatment is surgery.
• You want to know if you have more options.
• The current treatment is not working.
• When you have a feeling something is "not right."
• You want to know if other physicians agree with the recommended treatment.
• You may have lost confidence in your doctor or treatment plan.

Will I Offend My Doctor if I Seek a Second Opinion?

Doctors are humans too. You may find that your doctor understands when you let them know you would like a second opinion. It is not offensive to let your physician know that you value their expertise, but you want to have the most information to make the best decisions for your health. 

Moreover, patients may find it surprising that doctors frequently get second opinions of their own. When faced with a complicated or unusual diagnosis, they reach out to colleagues and specialists to get the best information that they can too.

It will be helpful to discuss a second opinion with your doctor. Let them know what your concerns are and ask if they can recommend someone to you.

Is a Second Opinion Expensive?

The cost of a second opinion may be a factor in your decision to seek one, but when you consider the value to your health and the expenses you may save in the long run, it may be well worth it.

Some insurances cover the cost of a second opinion when treatment is considered medically necessary, and some payors cover a percentage of the cost. Uninsured or underinsured individuals paying out of pocket can expect to incur expenses starting at around $500. The Mayo Clinic study mentioned estimates costs for a second opinion at around $1,200 when the diagnosis is consistent with the first. However, costs increased to $4,000 when the diagnosis changed. A new diagnosis requires additional testing. 

If you are lucky enough to have the option in your state of a virtual second opinion consultation, your cost may be lower.

Connect with Our Board-Certified Physicians

You trust your physician to help you achieve health and avoid disease. When your trusted doctor gives you a severe or life-threatening diagnosis or recommends a costly or lengthy treatment course, it is reasonable to seek counsel from another source. If you are open and honest with your doctor, you can avoid any awkward feelings. 

If you need a second opinion from our board-certified physicians, click below to schedule an appointment. My Virtual Physician offers a monthly Second Opinion Clinic™ with a $99 special consultation. If you have any suggestions for additional topics you want to read about, let us know! Don’t forget to check out our podcasts for more and follow us on social media.