The right to second medical opinion
By maxen7
@maxen7 (54)
Philippines
April 7, 2007 9:57pm CST
Just how many people out there would settle for one doctor's opinion about a certain illness? I've read in an old magazine about a mother of two boys, her eldest suffering from a tumor that suffocates him. The mother traveled from place to place and had met different specialists. They've all confirmed the same illness but had suggested different risky treatments.
As patients we have the right to the best medical advice possible. But the expenses, although necessary, sometimes gets us down more than our condition...
2 people like this
2 responses
@ethanmama (1745)
• Philippines
8 Apr 07
Since I'm I doctor myself, I usually have an opinion already, but I go to the specialist in order to confirm my opinion (that's a third opinion already, because I usually discuss first with my husband, who's another doctor). As with everything, two minds are better than one, and doctors and not averse to patients seeking a second opinion, contrary what what people think. Yes, it is the patient's right to seek a second opinion and doctors respect that. However, like you said, seeking too many opinions is actually very financially draining, not to mention tiring. You have to repeat the medical history and the history of the present illness again and again. I guess it's all about trust. Once you find a doctor you trust, you settle with him/her and let him/her manage your case.
@mnflower (1299)
• United States
8 Apr 07
yes in situations that are huge illnesses, I would suggest getting at least two opinions cause some doctors may see something that the other one didn't have seen this happen in alot of occassions, I have relatives in the profession and they recommend it all the time to there patients.The expenses are outrageous I know but we have to think of our health before we stress about the costs.
