If you recently sustained an injury, your main focus is healing and recovering so you can get back to living your life. It is crucial to receive proper medical care and supervision during the recovery process.
The treatment you receive can impact your current and future quality of life, so do not take these decisions lightly. If you are unsure about your current care, here are some circumstances that may warrant obtaining a second opinion.
When should I get a second opinion?
Your health is one of the most vital issues in life, so having a trustworthy doctor is paramount. However, even the most genuine and likable doctor may have limitations in their ability to identify and treat your injury or illness. If any of the following scenarios sound familiar, you may want to obtain a second opinion.
- You are not comfortable with your care team
- The diagnosis is unclear or treatment does not help
- You feel like you have limited treatment options
- Surgery is a recommendation
How do I obtain a second opinion?
While asking your current physician for a recommendation may feel like an embarrassing or daunting task, it is often the easiest route to obtaining a second opinion. Your doctor may know of another physician who specializes in the field of your injury and can refer you to see them. Before your visit, you should ensure that the new doctor accepts your insurance. Additionally, ask your current doctor’s office to send your medical records to the new doctor so they can adequately assess your health.
While getting a second opinion is not always necessary, it may benefit you in some situations. If you have more questions than answers about your injury, consider seeking another physician’s guidance.
