Booklet: What You Need to Know about Pancreatic Cancer

Getting a Second Opinion

Before starting treatment, the patient may want a second pathologist to confirm the diagnosis and another specialist to review the treatment plan. 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:

• A patient's doctor may be able to suggest pathologists and specialists to consult.
• 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.
• Local medical societies, nearby hospitals, or medical schools can supply the names of doctors.
• The Directory of Medical Specialists lists doctors' names along with their specialty and their background. It is in most public libraries.

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