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Getting a second opinion abroad

For a second opinion abroad you often do not need to travel; records and pathology slides can be reviewed remotely.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark background, two clinics and a thread of light.
Figure 1.Globe — Getting a second opinion abroad

01Short answer

Many large cancer centres offer remote second opinions to international patients. First pin down your exact question: is the diagnosis right, is the treatment plan suitable, is a transplant needed? Then prepare records, test results, genetic reports and, if possible, slides. Share the opinion with your local doctor, who usually continues your treatment at home. In acute leukaemia, do not delay treatment for a second opinion.

02Simple explanation

Question: make it precise.

Remote: often enough.

Local doctor: a partner.

03Scientific explanation

Slides: re-reviewing pathology material can refine the diagnosis.

Accreditation: for transplant centres, look for FACT or JACIE accreditation.

04What happens in the body?

Two clinics

Home and overseas centres complement each other.

Upload

Records are sent through a secure portal.

On a dark background, a rising folder.
Figure 2.Upload — Getting a second opinion abroad

Video

Allow for the time difference.

On a dark background, a night video call.
Figure 3.Video — Getting a second opinion abroad

05Second opinion abroad

Four steps.

Question — What do you want to know?1QuestionWhat do you want to know?
Centre — Choose an accredited one.2CentreChoose an accredited one.
Materials — Send them.3MaterialsSend them.
Home — Give the opinion to your doctor.4HomeGive the opinion to your doctor.
ConfidenceThe plan is checked.
DirectionThe next step is clear.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Two clinicsHome and overseas centres complement each other.
UploadRecords are sent through a secure portal.
VideoAllow for the time difference.

07Key terms

Remote second opinion
A review without travelling.
Pathology slides
Glass slides of tissue or marrow.
Medical summary
A short overview of your case.
Turnaround time
How long the answer takes.

08Key points

  • Write down one or two key questions.
  • Ask for the price in writing.
  • Have records translated.
  • Arrange for slides to be sent.
  • Discuss the opinion with your local doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Must I travel?

No, a remote opinion is often enough.

Is it paid?

Usually yes; prices vary by centre.

What if the opinion differs?

Discuss both opinions with your local team.

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. Must I travel?

  2. Is it paid?

  3. What if the opinion differs?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Seeking a Second Opinion
  2. American Cancer Society. Seeking a Second Opinion
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Medical Tourism: Getting Medical Care in Another Country
  4. EBMT. European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI-Designated Cancer Centers
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Finding Cancer Care
  7. MedlinePlus. Flow cytometry
  8. World Health Organization (WHO). Blood safety and availability
  9. World Health Organization (WHO). Drinking-water — fact sheet
  10. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Grapefruit Juice and Some Drugs Don’t Mix
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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