The decision to seek another viewpoint on medical treatment might mean difference between life and death. What your doctor tells you could hurt you. Dr. Jerome Groopman understands that well. After nearly losing his first child to multiple medical misjudgments, the prominent cancer researcher has made it his job to get more patients to question their physicians and ask for expert second opinions.
Improper diagnoses can kill.
Prepare for your initial doctor visit by writing down all the symptoms you've been experiencing. Also, make a list of questions you have about your condition and treatment options. Find another viewpoint. If your condition is rare or life-threatening or the treatments recommended to you are experimental or toxic, it might be a good idea to get a second opinion. Ask your physician if he or she can recommend an expert.