Should I get a second opinion for knee replacement?
Most physicians feel that patients should be well informed about their diagnosis and treatment options. No one should proceed with treatment and especially surgery if they don’t feel completely comfortable. If there are any concerns, it is always ok to get a second opinion before knee or shoulder surgery.
When do you get a second opinion?
“Patients should seek another opinion if they feel uncomfortable with their initial team, if they have a rare cancer that another doctor may have more expertise with, or if they are confused about their diagnosis or treatment options,” she says.
What do I need for a second opinion?
Groopman: Absolutely. One, you need all the medical records and any pathology slides or other test results to give to whoever is giving the second opinion. Two, you want the experts to discuss in an open way what the areas of agreement and disagreement are.
When to ask for a second opinion about a diagnosis?
If you’re restricted, or in a situation where the diagnosis is not clear, or you feel the best treatment exists at another institution, then you need to advocate for yourself quite loudly. WebMD: A recent study of biopsy slides at Johns Hopkins published in the December 1999 issue of the journal Cancer showed a surprising rate of misdiagnoses.
Can you see a different opinion leader at one hospital?
Groopman: You can, but it’s important to see someone at a different institution. Institutional cultures are real, and often an opinion leader at one hospital will do things a certain way and others at that institution will conform to that viewpoint. But at another hospital, even across town, there may be a very different philosophy.
Why do you need a second opinion before surgery?
What’s a second opinion? A second opinion is when another doctor (in addition to your regular doctor) gives his or her view about your health problem and how it should be treated. Getting a second opinion can help you make a more informed decision about your care. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) helps pay for a second opinion before surgery.
Where can I get a second opinion from?
Getting a second opinion from us is easy, convenient, and all done remotely. You don’t have to visit our hospital or one of our clinics for this service. You don’t even need to leave home!
Is there an online Second Opinion Program at Stanford?
Stanford’s Online Second Opinion Program: World-Class Expertise. The Convenience of Home. The Stanford Medicine Online Second Opinion program offers you easy access to our world-class doctors. If you have received a diagnosis or recommendation for treatment and want another opinion, our service can help you make a more informed decision.
What to bring to a second opinion appointment?
When you call to schedule the appointment, find out if the facility has a specialist with experience treating your condition. Plan to bring your medical records, including copies of all scans, exams, previous treatment, blood tests and pathology slides, with you to the appointment. Be clear what you’re looking for from the second opinion.