GETTING
A SECOND OPINION1.There
is no one right choice of treatment. Each woman has to make the
choice that’s best for her at the time. The best choice
is based on information.2. Do it! Take your original
pathology slides/blocks, x-rays, notes on your health history,
and the first doctor’s report to a breast specialist.3.
If possible, select a doctor who is not associated with the same
hospital as your first doctor. What you want is a fresh, objective
view. A doctor who works at a teaching hospital may be connected
to a medical school and may be more aware of new techniques and
information.4.Don’t worry about the first doctor being upset/angry
that you want a second opinion. Most doctors welcome such consultation.
If the two doctorsagree – good. If they disagree, go to
a third. Remember: it’s in your best interest to get as
much information as possible during this time. 5.If the films
are “suspicious,” you will need a biopsy to know for
sure what is happening in your breast.
HELPFUL
HINTS
1.Most
insurance companies will cover a second opinion. Some require
it. Check it out.
2. Take your notebook to every doctor’s appointment.
3. Keep records of all your visits, including names, dates, the
questions you asked and the answers you received.
4 .Remember to take all your reports and films home from the doctor’s
office. Save yourself the hassle of having to return for them!
5. It takes many years for breast cancer to develop. The “extra”
time it takes – even several weeks – to get a second
opinion won’t make a significant difference in the outcome
of your case, but it may make a significant difference in the
doctor, hospital and treatment you choose.
6 .You can call the hospitals of your choice and ask for referrals
to specialists connected with them.
7
.While there is no formal listing of breast specialists, there
are physicians whose practices are concerned mainly with breast
care.
8. If you don’t have insurance coverage, try to get a second
opinion from another physician at a no-cost clinic or from another
private doctor who works with a sliding scale fee.
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