Hello all- has anyone ever requested a 2nd opinion or change of consultant? I had radiotherapy/ brachy for stage II rectal cancer and all seemed to be dealt with, but I have a polyp at the site which needs resecting. Currently benign but obviously could go rogue! Thus I have been passed to the surgical team, but I'm finding the surgeon hugely dismissive, not listening to my concerns or giving full explanations. He actually suggested I make a decision as I was still in theatre (not even Recovery) post sigmoidoscopy and in the usual wobbles that go with that! My husband was in the first consult with me and also said he felt he didn't trust him.
I feel really upset and stressed by it (my BP was so high they almost didn't do the sigmoidoscopy- and I don't have high blood pressure as a rule), as I've had amazing treatment so far and my oncologist was lovely. I never even googled my treatment then as I trusted everyone so much- all I did was check in on here to see how everyone else was finding a similar experience and how to deal with that pesky gas!
This consultant is the head of the team so I assume the others at my current hospital are in thrall to him. However, I am due to move house soon-ish- taking me 150 miles away to another Trust who I know are good. I can easily stay there prior to my move. I suggested that to him, as they would be doing my follow ups anyway and might like to be following up on their own work. He didn't like that idea either... !
I also have BUPA insurance so I guess that is an option, although I don't think there are many surgeons very local to me.
Just wondered if anyone else had changed hospitals or consultants? I just don't want this man to operate on me.
Lucy1382 , I have not had to ask for,a second opinion, but quite a few in this group have, successfully. If you are moving, this would be easier. However, transferring records can slow things up. You could use your insurance. I had most of my treatment privately under insurance, only having the main op (anterior resection) on the NHS as the consultant thought it would be safer with a well staffed high dependency unit.Whatever you you do, listen to your instincts. Don’t let that man operate on you. Good luck.
Onwards and flatwards (don't do hills) and keep walking if you can!
Thank you so much and I hope your recovery has gone well! Can I just ask, did you get to "mix and match" easily across NHS and private? I know BUPA allow that with cancer treatment, but the consultants have to agree to do it- a lot of them won't! You're so right about trusting instincts- interestingly, I asked my brother- who has had a lot of (non cancer) medical issues- had he ever just instinctively not wanted someone to treat him? He said the only person he ever felt this about was an arrogant endoscopist ...who ended up perforating his colon. Go figure...
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2024 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007