When a small lump in Gloria Carrel's breast was diagnosed as
Stage 1 cancer, she found out that she was an ideal candidate for a
lumpectomy.
Gloria soon had surgery after her diagnosis, but choosing the
appropriate radiation treatment to prevent recurrence wasn't as
simple. The radiologist her surgeon referred her to recommended full-
breast external radiation treatment for six weeks, every day, five
days a week.
Gloria was very apprehensive about the excessive radiation
damaging healthy tissues. Since radiation is carcinogenic, she
didn't want to do that if she didn't have to.
Through her own research, Gloria found a treatment called
MammoSite that administers targeted radiation internally for just
five days.
"I asked the radiologist about it because I realized that I
qualified for it," recalled Gloria "He discouraged me greatly?"
Refusing to settle for excessive radiation that she didn't need,
Gloria sought a second opinion. Afriend recommended the Goshen
Center for Cancer Care.
She made the call and confirmed that the center offers MammoSite
Radiation Therapy and has since 2002. That same day, Gloria drove to
Goshen and met with the director of radiation oncology and a medical
oncologist She decided to complete the treatment, and had a catheter
inserted the very next week to start the five-day radiation
treatment.
"There were no side effects," she said after treatment "I wasn't
even tired. The following week, I went back to work. The treatment
was amazing."
Today, Gloria is glad she sought a second opinion. For her and so
many others, getting a second opinion can make all the difference.
Getting a second opinion offers peace of mind by either confirming
the diagnosis or providing alternatives.
Many patients mistakenly worry that asking for a referral will
offend their doctor. In reality, getting a second opinion is often
expected and, as most doctors will tell their patients, a very good
idea.
When choosing where to get a second opinion, there is much to
consider. Its important to choose a cancer center or hospital
dedicated to procuring the latest clinical studies, treatments and
technology.
"If possible, patients should have their case reviewed by a
multidisciplinary team that includes medical and surgical
oncologists radiation oncologists and pathologists," said Dr. Doug
Schwartzentruber, medical director at Goshen. He adds that it's
important to find a place that is patient-focused and treats every
aspect of a patient's well-being.
"From our experience at the cancer center," he continued, "a team-
oriented approach provides patients with the support they need as
well as the best possible treatment plan."
At Goshen, a second-opinion process exposes each patient to an
entire team of cancer specialists, as well as naturopathic
physicians. The team will sit down with a patient and the patient's
family to discuss the team's collective analysis and determine
whether the current treatment plan is the best available.
To begin the process of getting a second opinion, simply ask for
a referral from your primary-care physician or cancer specialist in
some cases, your own physician might initiate this process.
When getting a second opinion, you will likely be asked to
undergo another physical examination. Before the exam, make sure the
physician or specialist has all the information required. For
example, some doctors prefer to have a summary of a patient's case
written by the primary physician or specialist
Once the second-opinion doctor has your information and exam
results, he or she will review the diagnosis and treatment plan
submitted by the primary physician. That evaluation should cover the
patient's medical history, pathology slide reports, lab work, X-
rays, current physical condition and the extent of the cancer. After
the physician or medical team makes an assessment, the findings are
passed on to you and your doctor.
Before seeking a second opinion, it's a good idea to consult your
insurance company concerning coverage.
Most insurance companies recognize the importance of a second
opinion, but coverage plans vary and you may also need permission
from your primary physician.
Following are some easy-to-follow steps when getting a second
opinion for cancer care:
* Consult your insurance company.
* Ask your primary physician or cancer specialist for a referral.
* Sign an information release form and find out if your medical
records can be sent to the second-opinion physician or if you need
to take them.
* Ask for additional copies of your medical-records for you and
your second-opinion doctor.
* Before visiting your second-opinion doctor, find out what other
information, if any, you can provide.
The ultimate aim is to find the treatment plan that's right for
you. After getting a second opinion, you will hopefully have a
better idea of your choices.
If, however, the second-opinion physician disagrees with your
doctor's original assessment, you might consider getting a third
opinion. Always remember, if you don't understand something or need
clarification, ask.
Cancer is overwhelming, but you don't have to be overwhelmed.
Educate yourself Be organized and proactive. Ask questions and don't
be afraid to get that second opinion.
Doctors understand the tough decisions ahead. Part of their job
is helping you make them.
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