Cancer Second Opinions
When you hear the news about a cancer diagnosis, many questions may swirl through your head. You might be wondering where to go and what to do next. Getting an expert second opinion can help you take your next steps with confidence.
Benefits of Second Opinions for Cancer
Sometimes a second opinion confirms the plan you already have. Other times, it may reveal a different treatment choice, a new approach or information about a clinical trial. Either way — whether you meet with a specialist in person or virtually — taking this step can help you weigh the information and make decisions that are right for you.
Second opinions can be especially helpful if you:
- Have been diagnosed with a rare or complex cancer
- Received a cancer diagnosis from someone who doesn’t specialize in oncology
- Have questions about treatment options or concerns about aggressive options
- Are thinking about surgery, chemotherapy or another major cancer treatment
You don’t need a special reason to ask for a second opinion on your cancer diagnosis. Wanting to feel more certain is reason enough.
Second Opinion Options at Cleveland Clinic
Our cancer specialists are experienced in providing second opinions for many types of cancer. You can choose between scheduling an in-person or virtual second opinion for your cancer diagnosis or treatment plan.
In-person second opinions
If you make an in-person second opinion appointment, our scheduling team will tell you what they’ll need from you before your visit. This could include earlier test results, imaging files and other health records if you aren’t already a Cleveland Clinic patient. This information helps your provider understand what you’ve already done and been told.
Virtual second opinions
A virtual second opinion (VSO) lets you get expert guidance without traveling to Cleveland Clinic. You’ll start by creating an account through a secure portal. If you’re in the U.S., you’ll have a live video visit with a nurse care manager.
With your consent, Cleveland Clinic collects your medical records, matches you with a specialist and shares the physician’s review and recommendations. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to schedule a virtual visit by video or phone to talk through the recommendations.
What To Expect at Your Second Opinion Appointment
During your appointment, our cancer specialists will go over your medical records and talk with you about what your test results and diagnosis mean. They’ll explain your treatment options in clear language, answer your questions and help you understand what could come next.
This may mean continuing care with your diagnosing provider or choosing our team for treatment.
A team approach to care
We are experts in many types of cancer and understand just how personal treatment decisions can be. Bringing together specialists who work with rare and complex cancers, we can offer you expertise when you need it most.
FAQs
Can a second opinion diagnosis differ from the first?
It’s possible. VSO data show that 67% of reviews recommend a change in diagnosis or treatment plan. If that happens, your specialist can explain what’s different and what it may mean for your next steps.
What questions should I ask during my second opinion cancer consultation?
You may want to bring a list of questions to your appointment so you don’t have to remember everything in the moment, like:
- Do you agree with my diagnosis, cancer stage and treatment plan?
- Are there other treatment options I should think about?
- What are the goals, benefits and side effects of each treatment option?
- Are there clinical trials that may be a fit for me?
- What should I know before deciding what to do next?
How does insurance handle costs for second cancer opinions?
Before scheduling a second opinion for a cancer diagnosis, check with your insurance company about coverage. Some second opinion visits are covered, while others may require you to pay out-of-pocket. For example, health insurance providers and Medicare don’t typically cover VSOs.
If I don’t live near Cleveland Clinic, can I still get a second opinion?
In many cases, yes. VSOs are available in most states and U.S. territories, though options can vary based on where you live.
Some states allow virtual visits and written reports, while others only allow written reports. We can’t provide VSOs in Maine, Rhode Island or South Dakota, but we welcome you to schedule an in-person visit.
If you live outside the U.S. or its territories, we may be able to provide a VSO depending on your country or territory.
