Second Opinions for a Cancer Diagnosis
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to feel confident you have the right team and the best treatment plan available. Seeking a second opinion can give you that peace of mind and confidence.
The SCRI Oncology Partners team is available for a consultation to review your diagnosis and the recommended treatment plan. You can also book a second opinion appointment to learn about other available treatment options, such as clinical trials for your type of cancer. We offer a wide range of trial options, including phase I trials of emerging therapies that are not available at all cancer centers in the Nashville area. We’ll openly discuss our approach so you can choose the team you’re most comfortable with.
Whether you choose SCRI Oncology Partners as your cancer care team or not, our oncologists and support staff are here to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you start your cancer journey.
The Importance of a Second Opinion for Cancer Treatment
Second opinions are more common than people think, and are generally encouraged. While it might seem the first oncologist has everything figured out, another specialist may have a different treatment approach worth considering. Sometimes, it’s the same plan explained in a new way. Regardless, the goal of a second opinion is to help you feel more comfortable and confident as you move forward with cancer treatment.
The video below explains why another expert perspective can make a meaningful difference.
Does Insurance Cover a Second Opinion?
In most cases, yes. In fact, some insurance plans require a second opinion before certain treatments begin. When making your appointment with SCRI Oncology Partners, please let our team know that you’re looking for a second opinion. They will contact your insurance company to review coverage for this type of appointment and any restrictions you should be aware of. Your insurance provider can help you understand your specific coverage.
Do I Have Time to Get a Second Opinion?
It’s normal to want to start cancer treatment as soon as possible! And for some types of cancer, treatment will need to start right away. Other patients have some time to review their options before selecting a cancer care team.
Even if you have started a treatment plan at another cancer center, it’s not too late to meet with the SCRI Oncology Partners physicians for a second opinion. Most patients find that it’s worth the effort of receiving a second opinion to give them peace of mind and confidence in their treatment path.
When requesting an appointment with our team, be sure to let us know you’re looking for a second opinion. We will do all we can to get you in quickly for an appointment so you can make your decision.
Why Choose SCRI Oncology Partners in Nashville for a Second Opinion?
Our oncologists are highly trained, internationally recognized doctors who want the best for each of our patients. Based on all of the available information about your diagnosis, they will recommend a path forward using the latest treatments. This can mean using the standard of care (current, widely available treatment options) for your specific type of cancer, or participating in a clinical research trial if one is available to you based on your diagnosis. We will provide you with the information and answer any questions. We can also discuss the cost of care at SCRI Oncology Partners so you can compare it to the hospital-based oncology department fees. Choosing a community-based cancer center, such as SCRI Oncology Partners, often reduces your total out-of-pocket expenses for the same quality of care.
Above all, there is no pressure! We want you to choose the path forward that’s most comfortable for you.
Preparing for Your Second Opinion Appointment
When scheduling your second opinion appointment, our team will let you know what you can provide to make your appointment as helpful as possible. You may be asked to provide test results and other reports, including:
- Your diagnosis information
- Blood test results
- Biopsy results
- Imaging scans
- Your current recommended treatment plan
How Our Team Prepares for Your Second Opinion Appointment
By providing this information before your appointment, the SCRI Oncology Partners providers will have time to carefully review all of your results and collaborate on the treatment plan we recommend. If other tests are needed, they can also let you know before your appointment.
Why Is a Second Opinion for Cancer Treatment Recommended?
Besides finalizing your treatment plans, there are several other reasons to seek a second opinion from another cancer expert. Some of these benefits include:
Different Experience, Different Perspective
Every oncologist offers unique training and background. Some may have more experience treating certain cancer types, conducting cancer research, or using certain treatment approaches. Because of this, another oncologist may present options you haven’t heard before or explain things in a way that makes more sense. Hearing two different perspectives may make it easier to decide on your treatment and care.
Understand Your Access to Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are continually opening, but not every cancer center has access to the same ones. Getting a second opinion may open up additional treatment options, particularly if one of the two practices has access to more suitable clinical trials. At SCRI Oncology Partners, patients receive standard-of-care treatments whenever those are the best choice. However, if an available clinical trial provides a better option, and you qualify, our oncologist will recommend it. You are in control of your path forward and whether you participate in clinical research as part of your treatment plan.
Comfort and Communication
When cancer treatment starts, you will be in frequent contact with your oncology team. Feeling comfortable with your care team matters. You should feel heard, respected, and able to ask questions. If you didn’t feel at ease during your first consultation, a second opinion gives you the chance to find a care team that’s the right fit. Knowledge and experience are important, but empathy, patience, and good communication skills are essential, too.
Will Getting a Second Opinion Offend My Oncologist?
Not at all. Seeking a second opinion is encouraged and a normal part of cancer care. Whether you choose the first team you met with or the second, doctors want you to feel confident in your treatment decisions, even if it means you talk with another practice.
We’re Right Here in Nashville When You’re Ready
If you’d like a second opinion, the team at SCRI Oncology Partners is here to help. We’ll review your diagnosis, explain your options, and talk about the supportive services available to you.
When choosing the SRCI Oncology Partners team for your cancer care, you will also receive the supportive care you need from our advanced practice providers and our trained oncology nurses, dedicated to supporting you and your family.
SCRI Oncology Partners serves patients throughout the Nashville and Middle Tennessee area, including Hendersonville, Spring Hill, Franklin, Lebanon, White House, Gallatin, and Clarksville.
We’re here when you need us
If you were recently diagnosed or would like a second opinion, request an appointment with one of our experienced cancer doctors right here in Nashville.
We’re here when you need us
If you were recently diagnosed or would like a second opinion, request an appointment with one of our experienced cancer doctors right here in Nashville.
We’re here when you need us
If you were recently diagnosed or would like a second opinion, request an appointment with one of our experienced cancer doctors right here in Nashville.