Do doctors mind if you get a second opinion?

Most doctors will welcome a second opinion – they may even suggest it themselves. But be sure to stay in touch with your current doctor about how your second opinion process is coming along. In most cases, you're simply looking for additional information and opinions, not necessarily a new doctor.


Are doctors offended if you get a second opinion?

Chagpar says. “But this is really common, and doctors won't be offended. At the end of the day, you want to be sure that you are finding the right team for you, and that you are comfortable with the diagnosis and treatment plan you are being offered.” Many Yale Medicine doctors provide second opinions.

How do you tell a doctor you got a second opinion?

“I want to be sure I understand all of my treatment options. I think a second opinion will be helpful for me.” “You know I respect your opinion, but it's important to me to consult with another expert so that I feel completely confident in our treatment plan.”


Is it rude to ask a doctor for a second opinion?

In most cases, your doctor will respect your wish for a second opinion and will be able to help you find another physician to consult. Remember, the final choice is yours. Once you have a second opinion then you will be able to decide what's right for you.

How do I get a second opinion without offending my doctor?

Ask your doctor for the name of another expert, someone with whom he or she is not closely connected. Explain that this is how you like to make big medical decisions. Don't worry about offending your doctor. Second opinions are expected.


Getting a second opinion from a doctor could be a lifesaver



What percentage of patients get a second opinion?

Systematic reviews of the literature have indicated that the quest for a second opinion in different patient populations varied widely between 7 and 36% [20] and between 1 and 88% [22].

Is it OK to get a second opinion from a doctor in the same practice?

It is standard medical practice to get another opinion. Doctors do it all the time as part of their own process of diagnosing a problem. You should not feel any hesitation or guilt about stating that you want a second opinion.

Can a second opinion be wrong?

The first one or the second one? Or maybe both are wrong." That doesn't mean second opinions are a bad idea. By some estimates, diagnostic errors occur in 10 to 15 percent of cases.


Who pays for a second opinion?

Medicare covers second opinions if a doctor recommends that you have surgery or a major diagnostic or therapeutic procedure.

What are two benefits of getting a second opinion?

A very significant one in many cases.
  • Reason #1: To protect yourself against misdiagnosis.
  • Reason #2: Your diagnosis is not definitive.
  • Reason #3: There's more than one “right” treatment.


Are second opinions covered by insurance?

Second opinion coverage

Many health insurance plans cover second opinions. But it is good to know if there are restrictions. One example is in-network versus out-of-network options. Review your plan or call your representative to find out what your plan does and does not include.


Can you pay out of pocket for a second medical opinion?

Many health care plans cover second opinions, but it's good to find out before you make an appointment. Medicare will help pay for a second opinion as long as it's for a treatment that's medically necessary. But even if you have to pay out of pocket, the second opinion may be worth the cost.

Under what circumstances might you want to seek a second medical opinion?

If your doctor prescribes non-emergency high-risk treatment options such as surgery or procedures that can have life-long implications, it's good practice to seek out a second opinion. You may not be aware of other less invasive options, or you may want to ensure your diagnosis is accurate.

Are doctors always right?

Even though doctors are highly trained professionals, they are not always right. They can and do make the wrong diagnosis. While there is no definitive number as to how often doctors are wrong, what is definitive is that it occurs more frequently than it should.


How long does it take to get a second opinion?

After these are collected, most patients receive their written second opinions within five to seven business days, depending on the complexity of the case and availability of the specialist best suited to review it. Your Included Health personal care coordinator will keep you updated on the status of your request.

Why is it important that patients feel free to get a second opinion?

Getting other opinions can help you get an accurate, timely diagnosis and can help you receive the best treatment possible. A second, or even third opinion, can confirm a previous diagnosis or reveal alternative diagnostic and/or treatment options.

What is medical Gaslighting?

Medical gaslighting is when a medical professional minimizes or questions one's account of their own symptoms or otherwise manipulates a patient's perspective on their condition. This can take many different forms and may be intentional or unintentional, though the effect on the patient is often the same.


Should you always trust your doctor?

Trust is an essential ingredient in the practice of medicine and public health. Numerous studies illustrate how patients who trust their doctor are more likely to take medication as directed, return for follow up visits, change behaviors and have better outcomes.

How do you get doctors to take you seriously?

Tips for Getting Your Doctor to Take You Seriously
  1. Write down your symptoms and concerns. ...
  2. Ask questions. ...
  3. Bring someone to your appointment with you. ...
  4. Don't be afraid to repeat yourself. ...
  5. Consider seeking a second opinion. ...
  6. Remember that your symptoms are real.


Why do people ask for second opinion?

A second opinion can also offer insight into additional treatment options that the first doctor may not have mentioned. As a result, you become more informed about what is available to you and can make an educated decision about your health care and your treatment plan.


What do you do if your doctor isn't helping you?

Here are steps you can take if your doctor isn't listening to you
  1. Be honest about how you are really feeling. When the doctor says “How are you?” how do you respond? ...
  2. Set clear goals and communicate them. Take some time to consider what you want to get out of this appointment. ...
  3. Ask the Right Questions. ...
  4. Find a new doctor.


Should I get a second opinion before back surgery?

If a physician tells you that you need spinal surgery, it's important to consider getting a second opinion from an experienced spine surgeon before you agree to a course of treatment. This is especially true if you feel unsure about your treatment options.

Is it good to hold back opinions?

Experts say, however, that holding back can actually be more damaging than speaking, even if the opinion contradicts your boss's or is controversial. In an article in Forbes, Glenn Llopis, entrepreneur, author, speaker and business advisor, says, “Your voice defines the value you bring to the organization.


How do I talk to my doctor if I disagree?

How to Respectfully Disagree with Your Doctor
  1. Be firm but polite. ...
  2. Express your concerns honestly and ask your questions about the diagnosis or treatment. ...
  3. Share why you disagree or what your concerns are. ...
  4. Ask the doctor to explain their reasoning and provide more information. ...
  5. Think of your healthcare as a partnership.


Is it always good to get a second opinion?

Getting a second opinion can help you make better health decisions. If the second doctor agrees with the first, you may decide to return to your first doctor and move forward with your treatment. You can also ask your doctors to work together as a team.