Overview of Seeking a Neurosurgical Second Opinion

Neurosurgical care is complex and, in many cases, can be life altering. Having been presented with a diagnosis or a treatment plan, patients may want to seek a second opinion for a variety of reasons. In this section, we describe the patient’s right to ask for a second opinion, when it can be beneficial, and the process of seeking a second opinion from the best neurosurgeon specializing in your condition.

Patients often ask what the purpose of a second opinion is and when they should seek one. The reasons for seeking a second opinion vary and may be different for every patient. Some common reasons include interpersonal difficulties in the patient-physician relationship, the treatment options presented to the patient do not align with his or her treatment goals, or the patient has a particularly serious or rare condition that he or she feels can benefit from seeking more expertise from a top neurosurgeon. Ultimately, a second opinion can provide more confidence in your care plan and this confidence can be very reassuring and worthwhile.

Interpersonal difficulties may arise when a patient feels that they are not being listened to or that their physician does not share their core values. The patient-physician relationship is often intimate and requires mutual respect. Seeking a second opinion can help someone find a physician they fully trust. Patients may also feel that the treatment option presented does not meet their goals and expectations. Patient goals are variable, and a second opinion can help a patient find a physician who best aligns with their expectations.

For instance, some neurosurgeons may offer conservative management such as watchful waiting or medications, while others may recommend more aggressive modes of treatment such as surgery early on. Both approaches can be correct, but one option may be better suited to a patient’s goals and expectations.

Finally, in some instances of rare or particularly complex disorders, it may be beneficial to seek out a surgeon who has more experience in managing similar conditions, or is fellowship-trained in that domain. This type of expertise may be found at larger academic centers but comes with difficulties in logistics such as scheduling or travel and the benefit may be negligible in less complex cases. Ultimately, the decision to seek a second opinion varies between individuals but patients should not hesitate to seek one if they feel it will help them meet their treatment goals. 

In the patient-physician relationship, patients have specific rights as described by the American Medical Association (AMA). Broadly, this includes the right to have an open discussion of treatment options which will allow for informed decisions regarding care. To remain informed, patients have the right to obtain a second opinion about their diagnosis or treatment plan from another physician.

When exercising your right to a second opinion, it is important to recognize that physicians may reach the same conclusions about a diagnosis or treatment plan. However, in some instances, opinions may differ because of variations in professional experience and training. This does not necessarily mean that one opinion is wrong, just that practice styles vary in select situations. Oftentimes, both opinions are reasonable, and patients can choose which treatment plan best meets their specific goals.

People often ask if a physician can refuse a second opinion. Patients may be nervous and worry that asking for a second opinion is rude and will offend their physician. This is not the case, and most physicians recognize that asking for a second opinion can be immensely valuable and should be respected and encouraged.

Neurosurgical care is complex and conscientious neurosurgeons will recognize the importance of leaving no stone unturned. When seeking a second opinion, it is important to be open and honest about your concerns so that the two physicians can collaborate and develop the best possible treatment plan that meets your individual goals.

While refusing to refer a patient for a second opinion is inappropriate, physicians do have the right to refuse to prescribe certain medications if they determine that doing so would be wrong. Similarly, physicians can refuse to treat patients if they feel that treatment is unnecessary, the patient is abusive or threatening, or the treatment required is outside of their scope of practice. Refusal to prescribe certain medications or treat conditions must be medically indicated and cannot be based on individual factors such as a patient belonging to a certain group, race, or gender.

Asking and receiving a second opinion is an important right afforded to patients. Patients may want a second opinion for any number of reasons and doing so can be important to meet their care goals.

In light of a severe diagnosis such as a brain tumor, most patients and their families will want to seek a second opinion. This can confirm the diagnosis, support the initial findings, and potentially provide more information about the treatment and prognosis. Seeking a second opinion from the best neurosurgeon specializing in your condition can even help you find the best treatment plans and the much needed peace of mind.  

1. Find a Second Neurosurgeon: Ask your current doctor for a referral to another neurosurgeon experienced in treating brain tumors. Seek out credible resources, such as accredited hospitals, cancer centers, or organizations. Find the best neurosurgeons in your area or those that specialize in your condition. 
2. Gather Existing Documents: Compile all relevant medical records, including diagnostic scans and pathology reports, to share with the second doctor or surgeon. This can help them understand the factors that led to your first doctor’s diagnosis.
3. Check Your Insurance: Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for a second opinion. Some insurance providers have policies on seeking a second opinion.

Seeking a second opinion from a globally renowned neurosurgeon for brain tumors is essential for several reasons:

• Expertise and Experience: Highly skilled neurosurgeons have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating brain tumors. They are familiar with the latest research, surgical techniques, and treatment options, which can significantly impact the outcome of your treatment.
• Accurate Diagnosis: An accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the most appropriate and effective treatment options. An experienced neurosurgeon is more likely to accurately diagnose the tumor type and stage, ensuring the patient receives the best treatment plan.
• Access to Advanced Technology: Globally renowned neurosurgeons often have access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment that may not be available at your local hospital. This technology can lead to more precise surgeries, less risk during the operation, quicker recovery periods, and improved outcomes.

Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol has been recognized as one of the most skilled neurosurgeons in the world and has performed over 7,000 surgeries during his career. He and his skilled team are happy to provide a second opinion on cases that require surgery.

• Patients have a right to receive a second opinion so that they can make informed decisions about their care.
• Most conscientious physicians recognize the importance of a second opinion and will not be offended if a patient requests one.
• Patients can ask for a second opinion for many individual reasons and should not hesitate to do so if they feel it is necessary to meet their care goals.

• American Medical Association
• American Cancer Society