Seeking a second opinion for cancer treatment

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, for some people the path ahead can seem daunting. In Australia, patients have the right to seek a second opinion which can provide reassurance that all options have been explored. A second opinion can offer peace of mind, up-to-date advice, and potentially different perspectives on care and treatment. It may also help patients to find out about clinical trials or alternative treatments that were not previously considered.

How do I get a second opinion?

The process involves going to your GP to obtain a referral to a different specialist or asking your existing specialist to recommend another doctor for a second opinion. Waiting for an appointment to see a new specialist can take extra time, in most cases this will not affect the effectiveness of treatment, but patients should discuss this with their referring GP/Specialist to ensure any delays won’t impact their treatment outcome. There will also be a cost to see each specialist, but Medicare may cover some costs associated with seeking a second opinion, provided there is a valid referral from a GP.

Patients have the right to select the specialist they would like to be treated by. It’s important for patients to understand that doctors cannot discriminate against patients for seeking a second opinion, and patients are entitled to feel comfortable with their care or treatment plan.

Reasons a patient might like to seek a second opinion

1. Confirmation of diagnosis: Another specialist can verify initial diagnosis, ensuring accuracy and ruling out any misinterpretations
2. Finding all available treatment options: Different specialists may recommend alternative treatments or clinical trials
3. Providing peace of mind: Knowing that multiple specialists agree on your treatment plan can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety
4. Complex cases or rare cancers: Seeking a second opinion in something complex or rare can be crucial
5. Finding a better match: Sometimes you may not feel at ease with your doctor

Ultimately, seeking a second opinion is about empowering patients with confidence in their treatment decisions. Patients are encouraged to take an active role in their treatment journey, ensuring they receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs.

At Icon, our team of over 200 specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and haematologists, provide exceptional cancer care across more than 40 centres nationwide. Icon is committed to supporting patients throughout their treatment, offering the best care possible, as close to home as possible. To view more information on our doctors, and treatment options find your nearest Icon Cancer Centre.