When to Get a Second Opinion

Women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and you can definitely benefit from a second opinion by a specialist in these cases. Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to diagnose at first; seeing a specialist can speed up the process. You will also have access to the latest treatment information.

Deciding you need another opinion is the first step. How do you find the right doctor? Many physicians suggest starting with your primary-care doctor. "Most of the time, I think you will find that there is enthusiasm and they will recommend someone they respect," says Cummings, who will lead a session on second opinions at A Woman's Journey in Palm Beach, Fla., on Jan. 22. Other resources include local medical societies, and academic medical centers, which often are the best place to find state-of-the-art treatment options. You want to find someone who is an expert on your particular problem. Check to see that the consulting doctor is certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Another possibility is an online consultation, offered by the Cleveland Clinic, among other places. Dr. Jonathan Schaffer, managing director of e-Cleveland Clinic, says online second opinions are appropriate when the condition has "objective criteria"—in other words, an imaging study, stress test or pathology results. "Doing it online takes a significant amount of the stress and logistics issues off the table," Schaffer says. But it's not appropriate for conditions that require more subjective interpretation, he says, such as earlier stages of breast cancer, when mammogram readings can vary and in-person consultation could be more useful.

Most of the time, the second opinion confirms the first, Cummings says, but when there is a conflict, you may have to go to a third doctor. You can also ask both of the first two doctors to explain their decisions in more detail. When the time comes to make a decision, the Ottawa Personal Decision Guide offers a step-by-step worksheet.

While second opinions may seem costly and time-consuming, getting all the information you need to make a good decision is more important than ever. The health-care system seems to get more complicated daily; a second opinion is the GPS you need to avoid going down the wrong road.

© 2008