When faced with complex medical treatments and options, you may seek a second opinion from another doctor, surgeon, or specialist. For better decision-making, a second medical opinion can help confirm a diagnosis or discuss alternative treatment options. Seeking a medical second opinion can assuage concerns when facing serious or life-threatening health conditions.  A second medical opinion should also be sought as soon as possible after the primary consultation in order to begin appropriate medical treatment as soon as possible.

You should seek a second opinion in the following situations:

• Your primary doctor is planning an experimental treatment option for you because you have a fatal/life-threatening condition.
• Diagnosis is unclear, or if you have too many ailments.
• Your primary doctor is not a specialist.
• Current treatment is ineffective.
• Various treatment options.
• Introductory consultation diagnosed the condition as untreatable.
• You need confirmation.

Start by discussing with your physician about getting a second opinion from a specialist, if not already referred. However,  If you’ve already seen a specialist, look for someone with similar training and experience.  Alternatively, you can also ask your insurance company, a local doctor, a clinic, or a hospital to recommend a specialist for a second opinion. You can also look for specialists/surgeons online to talk about your diagnosis and treatment options.

In most cases, your primary care physician should be fine with you seeking a second medical opinion. You don’t require permission, but rather an advice. However, inform your primary care physician that you are seeking a second opinion before beginning treatment or undergoing surgery. Generally, your primary care physician or doctor will advise you to seek expert advice from a specialist.

Second medical opinions are provided by doctors who specialise in specific organs or conditions. For example, if cancer is detected, it is recommended by general physicians or another body part specialist to consult an oncologist. They can assist you in better understanding a medical condition’s diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes so that you can make an informed decision. They may also have experience with patients who have similar illnesses or have access to advanced surgical techniques.

A second opinion is similar to a primary opinion, which you would get if you went to a new doctor. It isn’t free, and most clinics and hospitals have policies about it. However, you may be eligible for a discount in a few hospitals/clinics if you have a referral.

A few hospitals (such as Dhanvantri Hospitals) provide free online second opinions to assist you in making treatment or surgical decisions.