Doctors agree: getting a second opinion is important before having elective surgery.
Getting a second opinion is easier said than done. People fear offending their doctor or questioning their expertise.
But the truth is, most doctors support their patients getting a second opinion when faced with a big decision.
If you’re considering back surgery, here are some tips to make getting a second opinion a bit easier:
- Seek an opinion from a doctor at a different institution (but still in-network)
- Find out if your employer has second opinion programs or arrangements with top quality doctors
- Take a trusted friend or family member to help you remember information and make sure you get your concerns addressed
Find a high-quality hospital with great affiliated physicians.