The Dartmouth study’s authors explained that changes in medical care vary in different geographical regions and have much to do with a physician’s personal training and involvement with continuing education. Dr. Jerome Groopman, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and author of the book, Second Opinions, explains that there can be important benefits to asking for a second opinion, especially when more than one treatment option is available.
Benefits of a Second Opinion
Authors of the Dartmouth study explain that patients generally respond to more than one different treatment. Some physicians are accustomed to using a particular treatment and may neglect to explain all treatment options as well as their side effects.
In a study conducted at Johns Hopkins University, researchers found that as many as two of every 100 patients who sought a second opinion after a tumor biopsy had initially received the wrong diagnosis.
In addition, asking your doctor for a referral sends a signal to your doctor. But as Dr. Groopman explains, good physicians shouldn't be insulted when a second opinion is requested.
When It’s Needed
Patients can always ask for a second opinion if they question their care. A second diagnosis is recommended for:
- Serious medical conditions, particularly life-threatening disorders
- When surgery is recommended
- When more than one treatment options are available
- Patients who are told specific treatments are not available
- Patients who are told that they’ve exhausted all treatments available
- Patients who do not receive a cause for their symptoms but symptoms continue
- Patients who question their diagnosis or treatment
- Patients with multiple medical conditions
How to Go About It
Most doctors prefer that patients ask for a referral to another physician. Although this isn’t necessary, it clues the doctor in that they may not have listened closely or responded adequately to their patient’s needs. In his book on second opinions Dr. Groopman writes that patients and their families shouldn’t hesitate to seek more medical advice if it’s needed.
How to Find a New Doctor
Patients looking for a new doctor can ask other patients or their physician for recommendations. For instance, Mary Shomon maintains a list of thyroid patient-recommended doctor referrals on her about.com thyroid site.
Patients can also call local hospitals, medical centers and medical schools and ask for a referral to a specialist who works at or in conjunction with that facility. Patients can also check the American Medical Association’s American Medical Guide and Directory of Medical Specialists, which lists board-certified specialists.
Questions to Ask
Ask if there’s a chance of a different diagnosis or if other tests can be used to help diagnosis or rule out the condition. If the diagnosis is different, ask what criteria were used to make this decision. In addition,
- Ask about alternative forms of treatment that may be available
- Ask about likely risks if treatment is postponed
- Ask about risks and side effects associated with treatment
- Ask about the expected recovery period
- Ask what to expect from treatment
Advocating for Yourself
Patients today are taking a greater role in managing their own health care. They’re becoming more informed about their medical problems and treatment options and working with their physicians to make these decisions. Health consumers are also seeking second opinions, showing the strong value they place on being in control of their health.
According to Jennifer Frank, M.D. an oncologist at the University of Wisconsin, patients must advocate for themselves. In an interview with the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Frank stated that if a doctor seems reluctant to help or resents your getting a second opinion, this should be a huge red flag for a patient.
Resources:
Shy about seeking a second opinion? Think again…..In Focus newsletter of the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, July 2009 adapted from Prepared Patient: Seeking a Second or third Opinion, Health Behavior News Service, Newswise, July 16, 2009.
Jerome Groopman, Second Opinions: Eight Clinical Dramas of Decision Making on the Front Lines of Medicine, New York: Penguin Books, 2001.
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