Booklet: What You Need to Know about Melanoma

Getting a Second Opinion

Before starting treatment, the patient may want a second specialist to review the diagnosis and treatment plan. It may take a week or two to arrange for a second opinion. A short delay will not reduce the chance that treatment will be successful. Some insurance companies require a second opinion; many others will cover a second opinion if the patient requests it.

There are a number of ways to find a doctor who can give a second opinion:

• One doctor may refer the patient to another who has special interest and training in treating melanoma.
  
• The Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell callers about treatment facilities, including cancer centers and other programs supported by the National Cancer Institute.
  
• Patients can get the names of doctors from their local medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school.
  
• The Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists lists doctors' names along with their specialty and their background. This resource is in most public libraries.

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