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.
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