Second Opinions

Why get a second opinion?

Whether you have been newly diagnosed with cancer or have already begun a treatment plan, Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute is always available to provide a second opinion. We understand that receiving a cancer diagnosis can leave you with many questions and that you are likely anxious to begin treatment. Early detection and treatment are important variables in the cancer journey. That’s why Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute believes in providing second opinions quickly and efficiently, while providing a thorough review and recommendation, all with the goal of providing you much needed peace of mind.

A second opinion is meant to:

Confirm or correct a prior diagnosis
Determine the stage and extent of the cancer
Determine applicable alternative therapies outside of your current treatment plan
Provide input from a subspecialized multidisciplinary team of experts
Allow access to applicable clinical trials

You may also seek a second opinion for other reasons, including:

Your current providers aren’t sure how to proceed with your care plan
You want the opinion of a specialist in your specific type of cancer
You are unsure which treatment option to choose
You have a rare cancer
You do not feel all your needs are being met with your current provider
Additional reassurance of your path forward

Why should I get a second opinion from Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute?

Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute has unique surgical options and innovative clinical trials not available elsewhere in the region. Our oncology experts are subspecialized, meaning if you have breast cancer, your treatment team will consist of experts who only treat breast cancers – they aren’t seeing patients with any other type of cancer. This focus allows more exposure and experience, and a concentrated level of expertise.

How thorough is a second opinion from Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute?

Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute treats second opinions with the same careful consideration and thorough review as we would any other patient. Each case is presented in Tumor Board. Here, our oncology experts review your history and diagnosis to understand what has previously been done. We confirm or redefine the stage of the tumor and reclassify biomarkers that can be used as a guide to select the most effective therapies, as well as review the plan developed by the initial, diagnosing provider. We also review outside pathology and radiology. Depending on the tests previously completed and the amount of time that has passed since they were done, Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute may order repeat or additional imaging, or tests.

Our sophisticated multidisciplinary approach allows varying perspectives, provided by surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, pathologists, researchers and other clinical experts. These are provided in a single room as a conversation around your case. This invaluable communication is integral to how we approach treatment for each individual patient.

When should I seek a second opinion?

You can get a second opinion from Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute at any time along your cancer journey. Because of the nature of many cancers, the sooner you can establish a treatment plan, the better. Time is important because some cancers can grow and spread quickly. From an economic standpoint, cost of care can potentially be reduced by catching the cancer and beginning treatments early.

How do I get a second opinion?

You can ask for a referral from a physician in any specialty – your primary care provider, a specialist such as a gastroenterologist or gynecologist, or the provider that provided the existing treatment recommendation. At Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute, you can also self-refer for a second opinion. Just give us a call to get started!

How will my doctor feel about me seeking a second opinion?

Physicians understand the value of second opinions and should support and encourage second opinions as part of the treatment process. After all, they want what is best for their patients and want them to be comfortable with the path forward. Your provider will be a part of this common process, by sharing pathology and other diagnostics to the cancer center providing the second opinion for review. They may even have recommendations on where you should obtain the second opinion.

What is involved in a second opinion?

At Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute, your second opinion begins with an appointment with a provider from the care team that only deals with your specific type of cancer. You will have a physical assessment and a discussion with our care provider about your health history and diagnosis.

For your convenience, we will coordinate collecting your medical records. The amount of time this takes can vary depending on the amount and location of the records.

Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute treats second opinions with the same careful consideration and thorough review as we would any other patient. Each case is presented in Tumor Board. Here, our oncology experts review your history and diagnosis to understand what has previously been done. We confirm or redefine the stage of the tumor and reclassify biomarkers that can be used as a guide to select the most effective therapies, as well as review the plan developed by the initial, diagnosing provider. We also review existing outside pathology and radiology and repeat these diagnostics or request additional tests as needed. Our sophisticated multidisciplinary approach allows varying perspectives, provided by surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, pathologists, researchers and other clinical experts. These are provided in a single room as a conversation around your case. This invaluable communication is integral to how we approach treatment for each individual patient.

Does insurance cover second opinions?

Many health insurance plans will cover second opinions. It is recommended that you find out from your insurer if your specific plan covers the cost. If you need to pay out of pocket, Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute has financial counselors that will work with you to determine the costs for which you may be responsible.

If I get a second opinion, am I obligated to receive treatment from Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute?

No. We understand that individuals and their families seek consultation for any number of reasons. A second opinion may simply provide reassurance that your provider’s treatment plan is appropriate for your needs. If our treatment options offer alternatives that you prefer, we are always happy to help.

Why get a second opinion?

Connect with us.

Why should I get a second opinion from Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute?

Better Cancer Care

Clinical Trials

Symptom Management

Resource Guide

Protecting Patients

Ready for a second opinion?