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Getting a second opinion

mikel
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  • 40 subscribers
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Hi,

I have recently asked my GP, in whom I have a lot of faith, if there is someone else in the UK that I can approach for a second opinion. This is following the latest consultation with my oncologist who has said that any further treatment will not be curative. The GP has said that I am probably under the best care, in Edinburgh, so unlikely to be offered a different outcome elsewhere. I'm guessing that this relates to what's available within the NHS only, although I don't know that for sure.

Ideally I would like to know who the leading expert on duodenal cancer is in the hope that I can approach them for a second opinion. I accept that the most likely outcome is the one I've been given by my oncologist but I would also like to make sure that I am exploring all avenues - not that I'm wanting to waste a lot of time nor am I expecting a cure (just hoping Slight smile).

Someone on a different forum has mentioned the Marsden, Christie, Liverpool, Addenbrookes and Memorial Sloane Kettering in New York but I have so far not followed up any of these - partly perhaps because I don't know where to start and am a bit wary of a scattergun approach.

Am I able to proceed to seek a second opinion given I've already tried via my GP?

mikel 

  • Hi Mikel,

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community, I see you have joined the duodenal cancer forum.  I hope you find it supportive.  My name is Barbara and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists.

    I’m sorry to hear you have been diagnosed with duodenal cancer. We can appreciate this is a worrying time for you. 

    Unfortunately, at the Macmillan Support Line we do not have access to any NHS records which makes it difficult for us to advise with absolute certainty. 

    It is understandable that you would like to explore a second opinion.  Before asking for a second opinion, it’s worth asking your consultant team to go over your diagnosis and treatment and explain anything you don’t understand. Your team will be happy to explain things, and, in some cases there may be no need for a second opinion. 

    However, we can appreciate that sometimes you just want to leave no stone unturned.  You can ask your own consultant for a second opinion.  You may worry that asking for a second opinion will upset your consultant.  This is unlikely to happen.  Often doctors will ask for the opinion of a colleague, especially in complex cases. 

    When you are referred for a second opinion, your medical information will be sent to the new doctor or specialist.  This will include any scans, test results and any earlier treatments you have had.  If needed, the new specialist can ask for information from the original doctor and hospital.

    You may want to do your own research to find the name of a consultant you think you would like to see.  At Macmillan, we cannot recommend any particular consultants or hospitals as people can have different experiences. However, it may be helpful to have a look at The Private Healthcare Information Network or the Care Quality Commission (if you are in England).

    You may find it helpful to give our support line a call. Our Macmillan Information Nurse Specialists are here to offer support and help with your questions on 0800 808 00 00 Monday to Friday. You can also e mail us back and we aim to reply within two working days.

    Best wishes

    Barbara G, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

    Ref: SM/BG

  • in reply to Barbara G- Macmillan

    Hi Barbara, 

    thank you for the comprehensive response. I have not pursued a second opinion any further so far and may well hold off on doing so. 

    mikel

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