The key to a correct diagnosis lies in the proper workup and interpretation of the imaging provided in accordance with a proper contextual analysis of the patient’s lifestyle and environment. Seeking second opinions and case consultation is extremely important, and the type of medical treatment and location decision are valuable tools in the hands of the patient.
In most cases, consulting another specialist can make the difference between success and failure. A second opinion can bring to light a variety of different tools that can be used for diagnosis and treatment, and confirm whether the recommended treatments are indeed the best for your situation.
The physician who provides the second opinion may have access to technology or information not available to your consulting physician, and this may lead to a more appropriate solution.
For example, a physician from your home country may recommend an invasive surgical technique because he or she is not familiar with a technique that may provide better results or a shorter recovery period in another country.
It is important to emphasize that the second opinion means expanding the patient’s options and providing a sense of confidence that the treatment chosen is right for the patient.
Before seeking a second opinion, ask your consulting team to review your diagnosis and explain anything you don’t understand. If you are unhappy with your diagnosis or would like to consider a different treatment option, discuss this with them as well.
Your family or caregiver may also ask for a second opinion on your behalf, but only with your permission. If someone asks for a second opinion on your behalf, they should have all the information about your disease or condition and check that they understand it well.
Sometimes a consultant may ask a colleague for a second opinion. Doctors on a complex case may also ask their colleagues for their opinion, or they may need to refer a patient to a consultant who deals with a subspecialty, such as hand or finger surgery.
Individuals referred for a second opinion are considered a new patient referral and are scored appropriately. A second opinion with a different consultant team may be at a different hospital and may require additional travel.