Seeking a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis isn’t about doubting your provider—it’s about making confident, informed decisions. Hearing from more than one expert helps patients explore treatment options, understand their diagnosis, evaluate potential clinical trial opportunities, and feel assured they’re moving forward on the best path.
Getting the input of multiple providers can also ease uncertainty and help patients feel supported through their cancer journey. Many insurance plans cover referrals for second opinions.
As a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Cancer Center and Rochester’s destination for advanced cancer care, Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester offers patients access to specialized teams who collaborate to create personalized treatment plans. Second opinions are always encouraged, as they not only provide peace of mind and diagnosis confirmation, but can also open doors to alternative therapies, new insights, and clinical trials.
When To Seek a Second Opinion
Patients can request a second opinion at any time during their care, but it may be especially important in situations such as:
After a serious or complex diagnosis, such as cancerIf treatment is not working as expectedWhen considering different treatment options
Requesting another review is also an act of patient advocacy—a way to ensure your voice is central in the process of shared decision-making.
Colleen Molina, a teacher diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, chose to seek a second opinion before deciding on her treatment plan. The other cancer center offered opinions similar to those of the Wilmot team, who gave Molina the original diagnosis, and she decided to receive her care through the Pluta Comprehensive Breast Care Program at Wilmot Cancer Institute. She then received coordinated oncology care, surgery, and genetic counseling close to home.
How a Second Opinion Can Shape Care
A second opinion can confirm your diagnosis, clarify the stage of your cancer, and highlight treatment alternatives you may not have known about. Knowing you’ve explored every option can help you feel confident in your care plan.
At Wilmot Cancer Institute, every case is reviewed with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. This collaborative approach may offer new possibilities, including:
Immunotherapy: stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancerTargeted therapies: medicines tailored to genetic changes in cancer cellsClinical trials: access to promising new therapies not yet widely available
Key Questions to Ask
Preparing for a second opinion appointment can help you get the most out of the visit.
Some helpful questions include:
Is my diagnosis correct?
What are my treatment options?How will this treatment affect my daily life?What are the risks and possible side effects?Am I eligible for any clinical trials?
Consider bringing a trusted family member or advocate with you for extra support.
Taking the Next Step
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with cancer, call Wilmot Cancer Institute’s New Patient and Second Opinion line at (585) 275-5830 or 1-866-4 WILMOT. No referral is needed.
When it comes to cancer care, a second opinion isn’t just another step—it can be the foundation for the best path forward.
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