Should I Get a Second Opinion—and How Do I Do That?
By Jennifer Omholt
Author of Just Diagnosed: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating Cancer
After a cancer diagnosis, patients are often expected to make major medical decisions quickly while still reeling from emotional shock. In the midst of this whirlwind, many people wonder:
“Should I get a second opinion?”
In most cases, the answer is yes.
Seeking a second opinion is one of the most important ways to advocate for yourself after a cancer diagnosis. It can help:
confirm your diagnosis,
clarify treatment options,
introduce additional therapies or clinical trials,
and provide peace of mind before moving forward with treatment.
Importantly, obtaining a second opinion does not mean you distrust your doctor. In fact, many oncologists expect—and even encourage—it.
Cancer treatment has become increasingly specialized and complex. Different physicians and cancer centers may have varying levels of expertise, access to clinical trials, or approaches to treatment. A second opinion can provide valuable perspective during a time when the stakes feel extraordinarily high.
Why Second Opinions Matter
One of the greatest challenges after diagnosis is that patients are suddenly asked to absorb:
unfamiliar terminology,
pathology reports,
treatment recommendations,
surgical decisions,
and risk assessments
while emotionally overwhelmed.
A second opinion creates an opportunity to:
slow down,
gather more information,
and make decisions with greater confidence.
Sometimes the second opinion confirms the original treatment plan entirely. Even that can be incredibly reassuring.
Other times, it may:
offer additional treatment options,
recommend a different surgical approach,
suggest further testing,
or introduce clinical trials or specialized expertise you were not aware of.
Either way, you gain more information—and often greater peace of mind.
When Is a Second Opinion Especially Important?
While second opinions can be valuable for nearly any cancer diagnosis, they may be especially important when:
the diagnosis is rare or complex,
major surgery is being recommended,
treatment options differ significantly,
you feel uncertain or uncomfortable,
the cancer has recurred or metastasized,
or you simply want reassurance before proceeding.
You do not need to justify your desire for another perspective.
This is your body, your treatment, and your future.
Will My Doctor Be Offended?
Many patients worry that requesting a second opinion will offend their physician or damage the relationship.
In reality, most experienced oncologists understand the importance of second opinions and recognize that patients often need additional reassurance before making major decisions.
You might say:
“I appreciate your guidance, and I’d also feel more comfortable gathering another expert opinion before moving forward.”
A supportive physician will usually understand.
If a doctor reacts defensively or discourages you from seeking additional input, that may itself provide useful information.
How Do I Get a Second Opinion?
The process is often more straightforward than patients expect.
Step 1: Identify the Right Specialist or Cancer Center
You may want to seek out:
a major academic medical center,
a National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center,
a physician who specializes in your specific cancer type,
or a surgeon or oncologist with extensive experience treating your diagnosis.
In some cases, your current doctor may even recommend someone.
You can also:
ask trusted physicians,
speak with patient navigators,
contact cancer organizations,
or research reputable cancer centers directly.
Step 2: Gather Your Medical Records
Before the consultation, you will typically need:
pathology reports,
imaging reports,
biopsy results,
blood work,
operative notes,
treatment summaries,
and imaging discs if applicable.
Many hospitals now provide electronic patient portals that simplify this process.
It can help to create:
a physical binder,
digital folder,
or organized file system
to keep everything together.
Step 3: Verify Insurance Coverage
Many insurance plans cover second opinions, particularly for serious diagnoses like cancer.
Before scheduling the appointment:
contact your insurance company,
ask whether referrals are required,
and verify coverage details.
Even if a consultation requires some out-of-pocket expense, many patients find the clarity and reassurance well worth it.
Step 4: Prepare Questions in Advance
A second opinion appointment can feel overwhelming, especially if emotions are already running high.
Consider bringing:
a written list of questions,
a trusted support person,
and a notebook or phone for recording the discussion.
Helpful questions might include:
Do you agree with the diagnosis and staging?
Are there additional treatment options?
Would you recommend the same surgery or chemotherapy?
Are clinical trials available?
What are the risks and benefits of each approach?
How urgent is treatment?
Recording the conversation can be especially valuable because patients often retain far less information during stressful medical appointments than they realize.
How Quickly Do I Need to Decide?
One of the greatest fears after diagnosis is:
“What if I wait too long?”
While some cancers require prompt treatment, many patients still have time to gather information and seek additional opinions before making major decisions.
In many cases, taking a short amount of time to:
confirm the diagnosis,
understand treatment options,
and feel confident in your care plan
is entirely appropriate.
That said, timing can vary depending on:
the cancer type,
stage,
aggressiveness,
and overall medical situation.
Your medical team can help guide you regarding urgency.
Trust Yourself
Beyond medical expertise, second opinions can also help patients assess something more personal:
comfort,
trust,
communication,
and confidence in the care team.
You deserve physicians who:
listen carefully,
answer questions respectfully,
explain things clearly,
and make you feel supported.
Sometimes a second opinion confirms not only the treatment plan, but also that you are in the right hands.
Other times, it opens the door to a care team that feels like a better fit emotionally and medically.
Both outcomes are valuable.
You Are Allowed to Advocate for Yourself
After a cancer diagnosis, many patients feel pressure to move quickly, stay agreeable, and avoid “rocking the boat.”
But seeking a second opinion is not being difficult.
It is being thoughtful.
This is one of the most important medical decisions of your life. Gathering information, asking questions, and exploring your options are not signs of distrust—they are signs of self-advocacy.
And sometimes, that advocacy can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to get a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis?
Yes. Many cancer patients seek second opinions, and most oncologists expect and support the process.
Will insurance cover a second opinion?
Many insurance plans do cover second opinions, especially for cancer diagnoses. It is important to verify details with your insurance provider beforehand.
How do I find the right doctor for a second opinion?
You can seek recommendations from physicians, patient navigators, cancer organizations, or major academic cancer centers specializing in your diagnosis.
Can I get a second opinion after treatment has already started?
In many cases, yes. Patients sometimes seek additional opinions during treatment, after surgery, or when considering new treatment options.
What if the second opinion differs from the first?
Differences in recommendations can happen. In those situations, additional discussion, further testing, or even a third opinion may help clarify the best path forward.
Jennifer Omholt is the author of Just Diagnosed: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating Cancer. A longtime journalist and 24-year cancer survivor, she writes about the emotional, practical, and medical challenges faced during the critical first weeks after diagnosis.