When Should You Consider Getting a Second Medical Opinion?

You’ve visited your doctor in search of answers to your most urgent medical issues. Now, your gut tells you that their response was off.

Intuition holds far more value than many health care professionals will acknowledge, so it may be worth your while to seek a second opinion.

Keep the following considerations in mind as you continue your hunt for answers:

Your Symptoms Have Yet to Disappear

If your symptoms persist even after you follow your doctor’s instructions, an incorrect diagnosis may be to blame. Don’t assume you need to continue living with pain or discomfort. A second opinion may uncover symptoms or solutions your original doctor missed.

You Are Concerned About the Risk of Recommended Treatments

It’s never wise to commit to an invasive, potentially life-changing procedure without examining your options. In some cases, medical professionals will suggest risky protocol without considering whether less invasive alternatives might be available. Before you commit, seek insight from another doctor or specialist.

You’ve Been Diagnosed with a Rare or Serious Disease

Some conditions are rare enough that diagnoses from even the most knowledgeable professionals cannot be trusted — there’s simply not enough research. The severity of the disease may also warrant an automatic second opinion. Most forms of cancer, for example, call for feedback from several health care experts. A broad sense of perspective is crucial as you determine how best to proceed with the treatment process.

Your Intuition Tells You Something Is Wrong

Too many patients fail to listen to their intuition. You might not know as much about a particular health concern as your doctor, but you do know your own body — and you should realize when something is unusual enough to warrant extra attention. If your gut tells you something is wrong, listen.

Did a medical professional’s incompetence cause you or a loved one to suffer? Contact Regan Zambri Long PLLC for help with your medical malpractice case.