Have you or a loved one received a serious medical diagnosis from a physician in North Carolina? Or, are you perhaps struggling with symptoms that have yet to be identified? These are just some of the situations in which patients may find themselves. At these times, it may be important for people to stop and consider getting a second opinion.
As explained by the Patient Advocate Foundation, every person should know that it is their right to seek different opinions when it comes to their personal health. Many people may initially be concerned about doing this as they may worry that an initial physician might be offended by this action. However, a reputable provider will not only understand a person’s wish to get a second opinion but respect and welcome it.
Before going to a new provider, you should collect detailed records from your existing doctor so that the new physician has the same and complte information with which to form an opinion. Many people find that one of the benefits of a second opinion is the consideration of different treatment options. Even when two doctors agree on a diagnosis, they may have very different ways of approaching the situation. There is also the potential that a second provider will find a problem that a first doctor missed. In other cases, a second opinion may reinforce a first one and reinforce your confidence and trust.
If you would like to learn more about how and when to seek a second medical opinion, please feel free to visit the patient’s rights page of our North Carolina medical malpractice and personal injury website.