When to get a Second Medical Opinion?

Right treatment depends on the right diagnosis. A second medical opinion is the best way to confirm the diagnosis made by your doctor and ensure that you are on the right treatment path. A medical second opinion from a leading specialist works as an extra set of eyes. It provides you with the peace of mind and rules out misdiagnosis.

According to emergency physician Leana Wen, “Getting a second medical opinion can often prevent misdiagnoses or improper treatment plans that could lead to other or greater health problems down the road”. Misdiagnosis is extremely common. A recent study published in BMJ Quality and Safety states that one out of 20 adults who seek outpatient medical care receives bad diagnosis. But the main problem is that most of us do not dare question the treatment of our doctors for the fear of offending them.

Medical second opinions don’t always identify misdiagnosis. It can also help to confirm the diagnosis made by your doctor. Jack, a 50-year old office worker developed a small lump on the side of his neck and his primary care doctor diagnosed that the lump was pre-cancerous and suggested 2 treatment options – monitoring it closely or having it surgically removed. When Jack requested his doctor to give him some time to think about it the doctor suggested him to get a second opinion. The second opinion confirmed the diagnosis of the primary care doctor and was ensured that he was on the right track of diagnosis and treatment.

But what if your doctor does not suggest a second opinion in your case? What are the guidelines to determine whether your situation calls for a second opinion?

When Should You Get A Second Medical Opinion?

Unless you have a life-threatening health condition that requires emergency medical care, it is never a bad idea to opt for a second opinion. There are situations in which a second opinion is essential. Some of those circumstances include:

A condition or problem that is considered serious by your doctor
A situation where surgery is the only treatment option
You still have a number of unanswered questions and doubts after consulting your doctor
Your doctor tells you that a specific type of treatment cannot be used in your case
You are told by your doctor that nothing more can be done to treat your condition
Your condition does not improve even after treatment
Your condition returns some days after treatment
The doctor cannot diagnose the exact cause for your symptoms
You feel that there is something wrong with the diagnosis or suggested treatment for your condition

[cl-review quote=”Medically Reviewed By” author=”Dr. Kaushal M. Bhavsar (MBBS, MD)” occupation=”Assistant Professor in Pulmonary Medicine, GMERS Medical College, Ahmedabad” avatar_image=”1325″ source=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fdr-kaushal-bhavsar-a8137355%2F|target:_blank”]