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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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