Getting a Second Opinion for Your Child’s Cancer Diagnosis
What is a second opinion?
A second opinion is a request for a doctor at a different cancer center to review your child’s medical information. They will offer a recommendation about pediatric cancer treatments for your child. It’s common to get a second opinion and most doctors welcome another doctor’s point of view.
A second opinion can provide you reassurance when making decisions about your child’s care. It can help confirm that the treatment being offered is the best one for your child. You may also review other treatment options with your child’s doctor.
When should I get a second opinion for pediatric cancer treatments?
The best time to get a second opinion is before your child starts cancer treatment or during the first few weeks of therapy. Another time to get a second opinion is when a change in therapy is recommended. For example, you can request a second opinion before starting a new chemotherapy, surgery, adding radiation therapy, or participating in a new clinical trial.
What to bring to your child’s second opinion consultation
To help us provide a comprehensive evaluation, you should bring a full summary of your child’s medical history and treatments to date. Providing as much of the following information as possible allows our team to make the best recommendation.
Patient summary
- Name and age
- Address
- Parent or guardian contact information
- Insurance information
Complete Medical History
- Physician’s name and contact information
- Diagnosis and list of symptoms
- Diagnostic scans (X-ray, CT, MRI, bone scan, PET scan, MIBG scan), including actual scans or biopsy slides when available
- Copy of any existing treatment plan
- All clinical reports available, including:
– Laboratory, including tumor biopsy slides/tissue blocks
– Pathology
– Surgery
– Radiation therapeutic summary
To make an appointment, please call us at 714-509-8636.
