NEWLY DIAGNOSED PROSTATE CANCER GUIDE
Getting a Second Opinion Seeking a second opinion following a prostate cancer diagnosis is very common and doing so can make you feel more confident in the treatment decision that you make. It’s OK to get a second opinion at any point during your care. Why Get a Second Opinion? To understand all available treatment options and have peace of mind with your treatment decision To get the opinion of another prostate cancer expert To confirm a diagnosis or treatment plan To hear information about your cancer explained in a different way To share the opinion of more than one healthcare expert with your insurance company How to Ask About a Second Opinion Some people find it hard to tell their doctors that they’d like a second opinion. Your doctor shouldn’t discourage you from getting a second opinion. If you are unsure of how to begin, here are a few ways to start the conversation: “I’m thinking of getting a second opinion. Can you recommend someone?” “Before we start treatment, I’d like to get a second opinion. Will you help me with that?” “If you had my type of cancer, who would you see for a second opinion?” “I think that I’d like to talk with another doctor to be sure I have all my bases covered.” The Process Before you start looking for a second opinion, contact your insurance company to find out what your policy covers. In some cases, you may have to get a second opinion from another doctor who is part of your health plan before the plan will pay for your treatment. It’s important to be able to give the new doctor the exact details of your diagnosis and proposed treatment.
Make sure you have the following information handy and always keep copies for yourself:
A copy of your pathology report from any biopsy or surgery If you had surgery, a copy of your operative report If you were in the hospital, a copy of your discharge summary
A summary of your doctor’s current treatment plan or the plan that has been given to you as an option Since some drugs can have long-term side effects, a list of all your drugs, drug doses, and when you take/took them
A PATIENT EDUCATION SERIES |
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