When you’re diagnosed with breast cancer, the immediate next step you’re likely thinking about is treatment. While it’s natural to want to take prompt action after a diagnosis, taking the time for a second opinion can provide reassurance, help confirm your diagnosis, and ensure you fully understand all of your treatment options.

Although you understandably may not want to delay your care, recent research shows that the time it takes to obtain a second opinion still falls within the recommended 60-day timeframe for starting treatment. In this blog, we explore why second opinions are important and invite experts to share their insights on how you can approach this step confidently and effectively.

Second opinions can confirm your diagnosis

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Seeking a second opinion doesn’t mean you don’t trust your doctor or their expertise. It’s a way for you to gain a deeper understanding of your diagnosis so you have all the right information to make an informed decision on your care. This means having a second set of eyes on your pathology report to confirm your stage and diagnosis, or gaining access to genomic testing that can open the doors to new targeted therapies.

When it comes to second opinions, medical oncologist Dr. Chadi Nabhan says, “I really advise everyone to be vocal about and just simply ask. ‘I just want to check in with someone. Can you help me get the records to another opinion?’ It does not mean you’re going to leave your doctor. It just means you want to get confirmation of the care that you are receiving.” Dr. Nabhan recognizes that patients sometimes have a fear of offending their care team, but they should ultimately feel empowered to “confirm the diagnosis and confirm the treatment selection.”

Second opinions can help you find a better patient-doctor fit

If you don’t feel comfortable expressing yourself or feel like your concerns are dismissed by your doctor, a second opinion can be an opportunity to find an oncologist that you connect with.

Vanderbilt University’s Dr. Sonya Reid says, “I think getting a second opinion is never the wrong answer. You need to be comfortable with where you’re receiving your care. As a provider, I would never take offense to a patient deciding that they want to get a second opinion.” She adds, “This is your life, and you want to make sure that you feel connected and that you trust your oncologist.”

How to ask for a second opinion

As the first step, Dr. Nabhan suggests asking your oncologist for a recommendation. That way, they can help you copy your records and “take the burden off your shoulders.” If you’d prefer to seek out your own second opinion, gather and organize your relevant medical records to provide to the consulting physician. Be sure to review your insurance coverage on second opinions.

Questions to bring to your consulting physician 

When seeking a second opinion for breast cancer, it can be helpful to come prepared with questions. Here are a few questions you’ll want to include in your discussion with the consulting physician:

• Can you review my pathology and imaging results with me?
• Are there any additional tests you recommend to confirm the diagnosis?
• How will biomarker testing help guide my treatment plan?
• What would you recommend for my course of treatment? 
• Am I eligible for any clinical trials?

Remember, no question is too small. Asking for clarity and guidance can help you make the best decisions for your health.

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