When a person receives a recent medical diagnosis and proposed treatment plan from a specialist, it is often beneficial for them to see another specialist for a second opinion. A second opinion is when a patient sees another specialist after a diagnosis or suggested treatment plan to ensure the diagnosis is correct and the treatment is most suitable.
At Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics (CNSO), New Jersey’s most comprehensive brain and spine center, patients can get second opinions from experienced neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, reconstructive surgeons, reconstructive breast surgeons, cancer surgeon specialists, and other specialists. Here, CNSO discusses how to find a second-opinion doctor.
Why Are Second Opinions Important?
When a person receives a new diagnosis from one specialist, they may be eager to choose the first treatment offered, putting all their trust in that doctor. However, it is possible that the diagnosis may not be specified enough, the treatment offered is not proven, based on evidence-based medicine, or it’s not the next treatment step in most recent medical guidelines. Seeking a second opinion provides confidence to the patient that they were given the correct diagnosis and evidence-based medical treatment, especially when it comes to brain surgery, spine surgery, or reconstructive breast surgery.
Who Should Get a Second Opinion?
Seeking a second opinion is not necessary for every patient. However, if given an uncommon diagnosis or if a doctor does not provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, the patients should seek a consultation from a similar or different specialist. Further examples include:
- Patients who are recommended to have a high-risk procedure or surgery
- Those who have an unclear diagnosis
- Patients diagnosed with a rare condition or illness
- Patients diagnosed with cancer
- Those who have been told their condition has no treatment
- People who simply want another medical perspective
- Patients whose medical team or health insurance provider recommends one
- Lack of clarity or understanding of their diagnosis or proposed treatment plan
Getting a second opinion can also give the patient peace of mind that their diagnosis is correct and confidence that they are getting the best treatment. This is why second opinions are often a part of the patient journey.
Finding a Second Opinion Doctor
Sometimes patients may be hesitant to seek a second opinion because they do not want to offend their initial specialist. However, getting second opinions is common in healthcare and patients should not be afraid to seek one. Doctors should be comfortable with any patient wanting another opinion and may even recommend it, so the patient is more confident about their medical condition and treatment plan options.
Typically, a second opinion doctor is sought from the same specialist who first diagnosed the patient. For spine surgery, if the disease is within the spinal cord, including a spine cord tumor, or a Chiari malformation, only a neurosurgeon can operate on the anatomy. But if it is any other part of the spine, either a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon, fellowship trained in spine surgery, can operate on the spine. Doctors will recommend other specialists or other doctors for the patient to seek a second opinion, especially if the diagnosis or treatment is out of their specialty.
If for some reason a patient cannot get a second opinion referral from their current doctor, they can ask their insurance company or friends, or research online. In New Jersey, every type of specialist is represented.
When a patient goes to a doctor for a second opinion at CNSO, they should have their previous medical images if they are to see a surgeon or a pain management doctor. A pain management doctor will also need the patient’s history of pain medications and pain procedures. Surgery will also require test results. Most insurance will cover the benefit of a second opinion.
Get a Second Opinion at CNSO
Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics is a comprehensive medical center providing surgical and non-surgical treatments for brain, nerve, and spine conditions. Although CNSO offers first-opinion diagnosis and treatments, the team of neurosurgeons, pain management physicians, and other specialists also welcomes the opportunity to provide patients with second opinions.
Generally, a primary care physician may refer a patient to CNSO when they present with back pain or other symptoms of a spine- or brain-related condition. With a complete team of neurosurgeons, both spine surgeons and brain tumor surgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons, reconstructive surgeons, breast reconstruction surgeons, cosmetic surgeons, pain management physicians, physiatrists, rehabilitation specialists, and physical therapists, CNSO has the specialists needed to confirm a diagnosis and provide the best treatment plan.
When a patient comes to CNSO for a second opinion, they will be scheduled for an hour-long consultation with a physician to review their symptoms, medical conditions, and previous test results. The medical team may order more diagnostic tests or radiographic images, to confirm or adjust the diagnosis and determine the most suitable treatment. CNSO takes a conservative approach to treatment, offering most patients non-surgical and non-invasive treatments like pain management and physical therapy before moving on to brain surgery or spine surgery. Patients who contact CNSO for a second opinion can participate in and feel comfortable with their treatment plan.
Find a Second Opinion Doctor Today
Patients throughout northern New Jersey looking for a second opinion regarding their brain, spine, or nerve conditions can trust the expertise of Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics. With an experienced medical staff and office locations throughout northern New Jersey, CNSO is easily accessible. To learn more about getting a second opinion at CNSO, request an appointment today.
