Here we go again! A new research with a new discovery about heart disease. They keep throwing all this info at you one study after the other, and it can be overwhelming at times. Take this one for instance, a team of NIH (National Institute of Health) funded researchers have found an allergen in red meat that may be responsible for heart disease in a portion of the population. It may contribute to plaque formation in the arteries. Say what?!
What is a second opinion?
When an individual suffers from a potential life-threatening disease or has to undergo major surgery, it can be a difficult situation to endure. It’s often tough to make a decision with an opinion or outlook of a single doctor. Patients are often nervous, confused and unsure. This is the best time to receive additional clinical advice from another doctor. This is called ‘getting a second opinion’.
Why is it important to get a doctor’s second opinion?
A poll that surveyed 5000 Americans reported that about half never sought a second opinion. Only 3% always opted for one, regarding a diagnosis, treatment or surgery. Seeking a second opinion is actually more common than you think. It’s a highly recommended clinical practice that can:
- Optimize treatment
- Reduce risks
- Alleviate unnecessary tests and procedures
How useful can a second opinion be?
A doctor’s second opinion gives the patient a more comprehensive outlook regarding his own situation. The patient is able to gain more knowledge which will make decision making much easier. In short, the advantages of a second opinion are:
- The chance to explore and acquire more information about available treatment options
- Compare and contrast the diagnosis with that of the first doctor
- To attain a suitable treatment plan
- To get an estimated cost of the procedure or treatment
Why do you get a second opinion?
A recent cross-sectional study published in the Israel Journal of Health Policy Research surveyed 848 people about seeking a second opinion. Most of the people who sought a second opinion were above 60 years old and perceived their health status to be not so good.
Reasons for getting a second opinion included:
- Doubts about diagnosis or treatment (38%)
- Search for a sub-specialty expert (19%)
- Not satisfied with communication (19%)
About one third of respondents chose a specialist that was recommended by a friend, and about half of the study population looked up online doctors or searched for information on the internet.
Results were as follows:
- 84% were satisfied with the second opinion
- 77% felt their health improved after the second opinion
- 56% said there was a difference in diagnosis between first and second doctor
- 91% preferred the second opinion over the first one
How to get a second opinion from a doctor?
If you or a loved one are having doubts about seeking medical treatment for your illness (whatever the reason may be), seeking a second opinion from another or multiple doctors is your safest bet. The best part is, you can get one from the comfort of your own home!
MyLiveDoctors is an online telehealth service that caters to your needs. It comprises of top-notch Board-Certified Physicians willing to work around your schedule to answer questions and discuss your concerns.
Seeking a second opinion can be complicated! Running around from one doctor to another can be tiring and expensive! MyLiveDoctors is a safe and secure online tool that harbors specialists from every field, suitable to guide you for the specific medical problem you have.
The online doctors on this forum will provide additional guidance and expert advice to help you navigate your way through your diagnosis and treatment, every step of the way. MyLiveDoctors beats the hassle of running around for a second opinion and provides technological support 24 hours a day, seven days a week! Just sign up, log in and book an appointment!
No more waiting in endless lines and long commutes. MyLiveDoctors instantly connects you with an online specialist. Begin your live consultations right away! It’s really that simple!
Just remember, life offers second thoughts and second chances every so often. When it comes to your health, take them seriously!
