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6 Myths about Getting a Second Opinion

By November 19, 2020October 29th, 2022No Comments
6 Myths about Getting a Second Opinion

To seek a second opinion has its own importance in building up confidence and reassurance on the treatment plan. A patient gathers information and learns more about the disease which in due course changes their outlook on the disease.

A second opinion is an affirmation tool that educates the patient on diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. A patient receives an unbiased opinion on their treatment plan from a second opinion.

There are many doctors who themselves recommend patients to undergo a second opinion to bring a better treatment approach. A second opinion is comprehensive and provides a better understanding of the disease.

To ask for a second opinion is a common practice to take health care decisions. Though, a second opinion has its own sets of benefits, still people restraint themselves to seek it due to some myths associated with it.

Myth 1 – Seeking a second opinion may upset the doctor

To seek a second opinion does not always upset the doctor if they are more concerned about their patient’s health condition. Many doctors take the initiative for a second opinion to understand the disease properly.

To seek a second opinion might not be interpreted as questioning the doctor on their ability to offer treatment. People feel that they will be considered as difficult or nagging patients.

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But the situation is not as it is assumed. Doctors usually feel happy in helping the patient by recommending them for a second opinion to bring trust in their treatment plan and to acquire a better treatment approach.

In case, if a doctor gets offended on taking a second opinion that means the doctor is not open enough in thoughts to provide better treatment options to their patient.

A second opinion brings back the confidence to deal with their disease. A second opinion guides a patient on the best available treatment options.

Myth 2 – A Second opinion will be expensive

People have the misconception that seeking a second opinion is very costly. But in reality, asking for a second opinion actually saves money.

A second opinion reconfirms and reassures a patient on their treatment process. They acquire knowledge of their disease to take the appropriate decision. In fact, technological advancement has made it hassle-free and cost-effective to obtain a second opinion.

A patient undergoing surgery must get a second opinion on whether surgery is actually needed or not. In many cases, it is observed that the patient is recommended to undergo surgery without looking into other perspectives of treatments.

Then it becomes more vital to seek a second opinion before spending a huge amount of money for surgery to reassure its need. 

Read Here, Why is it so vital to get a second opinion

Many studies carried out on cost-effectiveness proved that the second opinion has the potential to reduce the overall medical costs. To seek a second opinion is not only convenient but also cost-effective.

Moreover, many insurance companies cover the cost of a second opinion. There are few insurance companies that require a second opinion in case of complicated diagnosis and procedures. 

Myth 3 – To seek a second opinion is not only time consuming but also it is difficult to get an appointment.

With fast-moving technology, it has become easier and convenient to acquire a second opinion. Nowadays, seeking a second opinion is just a click away. Patients can upload their reports, medical history, and get a second opinion without delay. 

There are many misconceptions surrounding a second opinion. A second opinion can give a life-changing experience. When someone is suffering from rare or life-threatening cancer, then it is more crucial to seek a second opinion.

Myth 4 – A second opinion asks for more medical tests

Often, in a second opinion, they refer to the previously done tests. They don’t ask for repetitive tests and look into the previous reports. They may ask for tests only when it’s necessarily needed to get to a conclusion without having any doubts.

A second opinion reduces unnecessary procedures and prevents misdiagnosis and mistreatment.

Myth 5 – A second opinion rarely result in diagnosis changes

It is observed in a study that 66% of patients obtained a refined diagnosis and 21% received a changed diagnosis from the original one. The change in diagnosis is often found to be beneficial for the patient.

After going through both diagnoses the patient stands in a better position to make the right decision.

A second opinion empowers the patient and educates them on the recovery prospects. The patient acquires confidence in their course of treatment.

Myth 6 – A second opinion is only for a rare and life-threatening disease

A second opinion may be crucial for a rare and life-threatening disease but it is also necessary for other diseases to reach a better conclusion and look for alternative treatment options.

Cancer is a very complicated disease with numerous variables. It is not always possible for an individual doctor to come to an accurate conclusion as everyone can’t possess knowledge of all sorts of possible treatments.

A second opinion many times changes the line of treatment and offers a quality life. It provides confidence and peace of mind in patients dealing with the trauma of acquiring cancer. 

Note:-

A second opinion guides a patient by recommending the latest available treatments for achieving desired results.

Not all doctors have experience in treating certain types of cancer but by referring them for a second opinion the doctors help the patient to get appropriate treatment and conserve their future.

A second opinion provides clarity to the patient on their condition and available treatment options. It brings confidence and reassures the patient on their situation and helps in resolving the health issues proficiently.

A second opinion aids in the prevention of costly, unnecessary treatments and surgeries.

A second opinion is cost-effective as it averts the patient from getting inappropriate treatment or surgery. A second opinion can change the overall perspective and helps to lead a better and quality life.

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