Cancer is a common and serious disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 39.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes. When facing a life-changing cancer diagnosis, you want to ensure you’re confident with your diagnosis and treatment plan. A second opinion helps you stay confident that you’re getting the best possible treatment and that there are no misses in your diagnosis. This post highlights a few reasons to get a second opinion for cancer diagnosis.
Greater Chance of Correct Diagnosis
Misdiagnosis is quite common in cancer, especially if you were diagnosed with a rare type of cancer. A second opinion can correctly match the first diagnosis, including the type, stage, and treatment options. Seeking a second opinion clears your doubts and helps you focus on the available cancer treatment plan.
Peace of Mind
A cancer diagnosis is scary. You want to ensure that you have that type of cancer and stage. A second opinion can point to an entirely different type or stage of cancer, which changes the treatment plan. If the first diagnosis is confirmed, it may present additional treatment options for you to consider. Confidence and peace of mind are critical when undergoing cancer treatment. Doubts, anxiety, and second-guessing can lead to all kinds of complications.
Up-To-Date Treatment and Technology
A second opinion may reveal additional treatment options for your type of cancer and stage. Cancer treatment options evolve rapidly as researchers find newer, more effective treatments. One hospital may not be better or worse than another, but they might not know about a new treatment option. It can also confirm the best currently available treatment, as some options may lead to faster recovery than others. A second opinion may bring to light this new treatment option.
Informed and Empowered
When you learn about your diagnosis, you’re under no obligation to go with the treatment option you’re offered. By actively seeking a second opinion, you and your family are empowered about your type of cancer and the available choices of treatment.
If you’ve just learned you have cancer, it’s important to start reviewing your next steps to ensure you’re correctly diagnosed and get the best possible treatment option for you. Contact our team at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to begin your journey toward healing.
Posted April 3, 2023
