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Planning
Treatment
Before starting treatment,
the patient might want a second opinion about the diagnosis
and the treatment plan. Some insurance companies require a
second opinion; others may cover a second opinion if the
patient requests it. It may take a week or two to arrange to
see another doctor. Studies show that a brief delay (up to
several weeks) between biopsy and treatment does not make
breast cancer treatment less effective. There are a number of
ways to find a doctor for a second opinion:
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The patient's doctor
may refer her to one or more specialists. Specialists who
treat breast cancer include surgeons, medical oncologists,
plastic surgeons,
and radiation oncologists. Sometimes these doctors work
together at cancer centers or special centers for breast
diseases.
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The Cancer Information
Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell callers about
treatment facilities, including cancer centers and other
NCI-supported programs, in their area.
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Patients can get the
names of specialists from their local medical society, a
nearby hospital, or a medical school.
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The Official ABMS
Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists lists
doctors' names along with their specialty and their
background. This resource, produced by the American Board
of Medical Specialties, is available in most public
libraries.
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Introduction Page
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