Getting a second opinion in lung cancer
We’re here to help you make sense of it all.
We understand that you may want to get a second opinion. When you make an appointment with us to get a second opinion on a lung cancer diagnosis, it is typically for one of these reasons:
- You may have received a lung cancer diagnosis, but you don’t have symptoms.
You may have received a lung cancer diagnosis, but you are not at high risk and have never smoked.
You felt that the doctor seemed to rush the examination or came to a conclusion about your condition too quickly.
That your needs were not fully taken into consideration.
- You received a treatment plan that felt too aggressive and want to know if there are other options based on your medical history and state of health.
You did not get all your questions answered and had no opportunity to ask follow-up questions.
You questioned whether your goals align with the prescribed plan for care.
The initial diagnosis you received just did not feel right.
All of these are valid reasons for you to seek out a second opinion. More than that, you know your body, you know what you’re feeling, and you know what feels right for you. We are here to help you in any way that we can.
We pledge to give you a thorough exam and a carefully considered diagnosis.
When you come to us for a second opinion about your lung cancer diagnosis, we will take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your lifestyle, and answer all your questions. We will perform a thorough examination, run all necessary tests and screenings, and make sure that we have all the information we need to make an informed diagnosis.
Once we have all your screening results back, our multispecialty team will work together to reach a clear diagnosis. We will explain to you why and how we arrived at this conclusion and will give you all the information you need to help you decide what the next best step is for you.
We will offer you clear treatment options.
After we have a clear diagnosis, we will give you options on what can happen next.
We will take your short- and long-term needs into consideration, as well as your recovery goals so that we can decide together on the best course of action. From there, we will make a plan for care, bring in all the necessary support from our hospital teams, coordinate scheduling of your services, and stay on top of your progress, keeping you informed every step of the way.
You are always welcome to request a second opinion.
We know that sometimes you may not agree with your diagnosis or treatment or may just want to hear a second opinion while you are under our care. This is perfectly okay. If at any time during your treatment you want to get a second opinion, just tell your provider and they will make arrangements for you.
We’re here to help guide you in finding the right doctor for your second opinion.
Finding the right doctor for you is important. Here is a short list of what to look for, and what to ask:
Do they specialize in your particular type of cancer?
Specialization is important in getting the right diagnosis and treatment.
Would you prefer a male or female doctor?
Sometimes, feeling relaxed around a doctor comes down to gender. If this is the case, make sure to ask if the kind of doctor you would prefer to see is available.
What hospital are they affiliated with, and do they have the resources to provide total care?
Hospital affiliation can make all the difference. Ask if the hospital can give referrals and coordinate your care throughout their system.
Do they participate in your insurance plan?
Knowing this can help put your mind at ease. As if they participate in your plan and if they meet any other requirements, like being in network.
Do you feel comfortable with that doctor?
Your relationship with your doctor is extremely important, so make sure you feel comfortable with them, and free to express your needs and concerns.
Your care program
Support Throughout Your Journey
No matter where you are in your journey, there are many ways we can help and support you.