Introduction

Before starting treatment, people with cancer might want a second opinion about their diagnosis and treatment options. Some insurance companies require a second opinion; others may cover a second opinion if the patient or doctor requests it.

It may take some time and effort to gather medical records and arrange to see another doctor. In general, taking several weeks to get a second opinion does not make treatment less effective. In some cases, however, people with cancer need immediate care.

How to Find a Second Opinion

Your doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. At cancer centers, several specialists often work together as a team.

The Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell callers about nearby treatment centers.

A local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school can usually provide the names of specialists.

The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has a list of doctors who have met certain education and training requirements and have passed specialty examinations. The Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists lists doctors' names along with their specialty and their educational background. The directory is available in most public libraries. Also, ABMS offers this information on the Internet at http://www.abms.org. (Click on "Who's Certified.")

The NCI provides a helpful fact sheet called

 "How To Find a Doctor or Treatment Facility If You Have Cancer."

 It is available on the Internet at http://cancer.gov/publications and may be ordered from the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.