Being diagnosed with cancer can be quite a shocker for anyone. People may experience several emotions and have unanswered questions. How? Where do I go from here now? What are my treatment options? Will I die or live long enough to see my kids get married? How can I afford treatment?
While these questions are legit, it is still better to get more than one opinion on your diagnosis and possible treatment options before moving forward. So if you have received some bad news recently, double-check before throwing all hands in the air. Listed below are reasons you should get a second opinion on your initial reports and treatment plan.
To check the reliability of the diagnosis
When you receive a bout of bad news, it would be wise to get multiple opinions to gauge whether they all match. Sometimes, signs and symptoms may not be apparent to one healthcare professional. But another with better know-how and experience may be able to spot some signs. Once everyone gives you the same bad news, you might have a better sense of peace knowing the way forward. Sure, multiple docs telling you that you have cancer may not sound pleasing, but at least you are now sure about it and must take swift action and plan the future.
To get a specialized opinion
Not all cancers are the same. Therefore, talking to someone who specializes in your type of cancer diagnosis may help develop a better picture of your options. For example, there is lung cancer, and then there's pleural mesothelioma. While the former may be because of common carcinogens or old age, the latter is rare, specific, and extremely fatal. So, it would be wise to talk with a specialist before planning your treatment. Booking an appointment with an oncologist who has experience with asbestos-related cancer patients will improve your treatment outcomes.
To rule out the possibility of misdiagnosis
Studies indicate that misdiagnosis may account for more than 250,000 deaths in the US alone. That's a high number! So, in the unfortunate event that your first diagnosis was, in fact, a misdiagnosis, you may want to get another opinion. Now you'll really be sure!
To satisfy yourself
There are times when you visit a doctor, receive a diagnosis, and map out a treatment plan. Still, you simply don't feel comfortable with the person you are working with. There doesn't need to be a whole citable issue; sometimes, an odd feeling or personal bias provides enough ground to change your doctor. As a patient, you have the right to choose which healthcare professional should treat you.
It is best to work with a doctor you are personally satisfied with. You will be working with this person for the next few months, years, or possibly the rest of your life. Therefore, ensure you are satisfied with your choice before moving forward. Switching doctors, later on, isn't unheard of, but it can complicate an already complex situation.
To tap into diverse treatment alternatives
Every doctor will have a different approach to treating cancer and managing pain. Some may opt for radiation, others may suggest surgery, while others may recommend chemo. Sure, your treatment choice does depend on your cancer type and how far it has metastasized. But the doctor's approach and opinions matter a lot as well.
Seeing different doctors gives you a diverse range of treatment plans you can consider in the future. Remember that treatment entails several things. Not only is it going to take its toll on your health, but your bank account as well. Therefore, the more options you have after considering multiple opinions, the better you'll be able to plan.
It would also be wise to consider your family's opinion at this time. They are going through this process as well. Therefore, consider their concerns and financial position too.
To participate in clinical trials
Cancer is treatable but not curable. Without research, it is impossible to develop a cure and more effective treatment options. For this reason, some oncologists also encourage patients to participate in clinical trials.
If you are ready to expose yourself to something like this, go for it. It might cover the costs for your treatment, and you might be part of something revolutionary. However, the downside is that you are part of a test trial. This has its pros and cons that you might want to read about by clicking here.
Conclusion
This article mentions a few reasons why cancer patients should get a second opinion on their prognosis instead of settling with what the first doctor they see says. Cancer can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health and family life. It can also be quite expensive to treat. So, consult multiple specialists to evaluate your options and plan your treatment. This way, you may be able to save a pretty penny down the road and beat the disease.