Once you go through the process of finding and interviewing a health care provider, he or she does not have to be your only source of information. Breast cancer is a complex and serious condition. Everyone diagnosed with breast cancer should consider seeking a second opinion.
Seeing a second health care provider from a different hospital or group practice serves many purposes. It can instill confidence in the first provider by confirming a diagnosis or course of treatment. It can give a different insight into your diagnosis and treatment and increase your options for care. And, it gives you a chance to interact in-depth with another health care provider, who may be better suited to provide your care.
Before getting a second opinion, check with your insurance company to see if there are any limits. Some policies may only cover second opinions from providers in their network.
Updated 08/18/09
