Getting a second opinion on your medical diagnosis or treatment plan is always a good idea. You want to make sure you’re moving forward with the right information and the most effective treatment plan. Whether you’re getting a second opinion on a cancer diagnosis, treatment plan for surgery, or any other medical decision, there are questions you should ask to get the most out of your medical second opinion consultation.
The Top Questions to Ask When Getting a Second Opinion
Is My Diagnosis Correct?
This first question is perhaps the most important. You want to find out if there’s a chance that you could be misdiagnosed. It’s not uncommon for patients to be misdiagnosed, especially if they’ve seen several different doctors. 12 million US adults each year experience a diagnostic error. 1 out of 10 people with cancer, infection, or a vascular event is misdiagnosed every year. These misdiagnoses can lead to dangerous and even deadly consequences, so it’s crucial that you get a second opinion to ensure accuracy.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Even if you’re fairly certain of your diagnosis, there may be different ways to treat your condition. You may be a candidate for surgery, medication, or a clinical trial. Be sure to ask about all of the available options so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment plan.
What Are the Risks, Side Effects and Chance of Success of Each Treatment Option?
No treatment is without risk, and some treatments are more successful than others. Be sure to ask your doctor about the details of each treatment option so that you can make the best decision for your care.
What If I Decide Not to Treat My Condition?
In some cases, patients may choose not to treat their condition. This is usually only an option for those with very early-stage cancers or other conditions that are not yet causing symptoms. But if you’re considering this option, be sure to ask your doctor about the risks and side effects of not treating your condition.
Is Getting a Second Opinion Worth It?
A second opinion on a serious diagnosis or complex treatment plan can give you peace of mind that you’re making the right choices about your health care. By taking an active role in your medical care and asking the right questions, you can gain a better understanding of your condition and potentially improve your health outcomes.
Sometimes, though, appointments for specialists can be hard to schedule, or you may feel like you’re being a bother by asking for another opinion. But your doctor shouldn’t be offended about you seeking a second opinion—and you can now get a second opinion online. Even some of the world’s leading hospitals, like Cleveland Clinic, offer online second opinion services that you can access from the comfort of your own home. These services provide the same level of expertise and information as an in-person consultation, making it easier than ever to get a second opinion from a specialist who knows your specific condition.
Virtual Second Opinions
Virtual Second Opinions by Cleveland Clinic offer patients the opportunity to get a second opinion from a top specialist without having to travel. We can provide second opinions on all conditions, including:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Neurological disorders
These questions are a great starting point for getting a second opinion, but be sure to ask your doctor any other questions you may have. You want to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your care. With The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic’s Virtual Second Opinion program, you can get a second opinion from the comfort of your own home.
Get Started with a Virtual Second Opinion
If you’re interested in getting a Virtual Second Opinion from The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic, learn more, or simply register online today.
