Getting
a Second Opinion
Getting a second opinion is standard medical practice these
days.
There are millions of surgical procedures performed in the
United
States every year and the majority of these operations are
necessary for the health and well being of the patient. But,
according to recent studies, a percentage of surgeries may
be unnecessary.
Many people are now seeking second opinions, especially when
it
comes to elective surgery procedures. Also some insurance
companies are encouraging second opinions for surgical procedures
and more people than ever are beginning to take an active
role in their
health care options.
Based on all of the surgeries performed, one can conclude
that overall we have a good system. However, we still hear
of horror stories and botched operations from time to time,
both in this country and around the world.
A second medical opinion can save you time and money, and
it is possible that the condition in question can be treated
by means other than surgery. Your doctor's approach to treating
your condition is influenced by his training, experience,
and exposure to new techniques. Getting a second opinion is
standard medical practice, and you will find that most physicians
welcome second and
even third opinions. You can be candid and open with your
physician
about this as you tell him your feelings and how much more
comfortable you'd feel getting another doctor's opinion.
If you decide to get a second medical opinion on a surgical
procedure, you may wish to ask your doctor to refer a colleague
or specialist. If you'd rather seek out another doctor yourself,
you can take the matter up with your local medical society
or area medical school.
When you go to a second doctor, tell him or her the name
of the
recommended surgical procedure and do over the various tests
you
have already had. This can save you the unnecessary expense
of running duplicate medical tests. If the second doctor agrees
that the surgery is necessary, he or she will usually send
you back to the first doctor.
If you make the decision to have the recommended surgery,
there are a number of questions you may like to have answered
such as from what medical school did the surgeon graduate,
and in what specialty did the surgeon complete an accredited
residency program. You might also want to inquire as to how
many operations like yours the particular surgeon has performed
and how many of those patients have required additional surgery.
A good indicator of a surgeon's competence is certification
by the American Board of Medical Specialties. The letters
F.A.C.S. (Fellow of the American College of Surgeons) after
the surgeon's name is another sign of a surgeon's qualifications.
Once you are comfortable with your choice of a surgeon, find
out what
your options are. Ask about possible risks, complications
and side effects, and the length of the recovery period. Talk
to others who have had the same procedure. Also, don't forget
to check with your insurance company to learn if the surgical
procedure is covered under
your policy, and if so, whether it is covered as in-patient
or out-patient surgery. Remember, you deserve to be informed
of all your health care options, especially when it involves
a surgical procedure.
|
