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USA: Second opinion

In the USA, getting a second opinion is common, many insurance plans cover it, and doctors usually take it in their stride.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, two lamps.
Figure 1.Lamps — USA: Second opinion

01Short answer

The best place for a second opinion is often an NCI-Designated Cancer Center. Many centres offer remote review of records and pathology slides (a remote second opinion). First check your insurance coverage and whether prior authorization is needed. In acute leukaemia it is important not to delay treatment; the second opinion can be arranged in parallel.

02Simple explanation

Normal: doctors understand.

Insurance: often covers it.

Remote: possible.

03Scientific explanation

Pathology: re-reviewing slides at another centre can refine the diagnosis.

Time: in acute leukaemia, treatment should not wait.

04What happens in the body?

One file

Two specialists look at the same results.

Slides

Pathology material is sent by courier.

On a dark navy background, a slide box.
Figure 2.Box — USA: Second opinion

Video

Some consultations happen by video.

On a dark navy background, a video screen.
Figure 3.Video — USA: Second opinion

05Second opinion

Four steps.

Coverage — Ask your insurer.1CoverageAsk your insurer.
Records — Gather them.2RecordsGather them.
Slides — Send them.3SlidesSend them.
Compare — Set the plans side by side.4CompareSet the plans side by side.
ConfidenceThe plan is confirmed.
DirectionThe choice is clear.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
One fileTwo specialists look at the same results.
SlidesPathology material is sent by courier.
VideoSome consultations happen by video.

07Key terms

Second opinion
A review by another specialist.
Remote review
Review without travelling.
Pathology review
A second look at the slides.
Tumor board
A multidisciplinary meeting.

08Key points

  • Call your insurer.
  • Download records from the portal.
  • Ask for the slides to be sent.
  • Prepare a list of questions.
  • Keep both doctors informed.

09Frequently asked questions

Will my doctor be offended?

Usually not; many doctors suggest it themselves.

How long does it take?

From a few days to two or three weeks.

What if the opinions differ?

Discuss the differences with both doctors.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Will my doctor be offended?

  2. How long does it take?

  3. What if the opinions differ?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Seeking a Second Opinion
  2. American Cancer Society. Seeking a Second Opinion
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI-Designated Cancer Centers
  4. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). NCCN Guidelines for Patients
  5. HealthIT.gov (ONC). How to get your health record
  6. Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft. Official website (in German)
  7. BfArM (Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices). Official website
  8. DRK-Blutspendedienste. Blood donation (in German)
  9. ZKRD (German National Bone Marrow Donor Registry). Official website
  10. DKMS. Official website
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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