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Second Opinions
Finding out you have cancer is life-changing. After a diagnosis, it’s natural to want as much information as possible about your condition and cancer treatment options. At Henry Ford Health, we offer in-person and virtual second opinions for people throughout Michigan and the Midwest.
Why choose Henry Ford for a second opinion?
We have expertise with common and rare cancers and access to leading-edge treatments and clinical trials. This combination makes us uniquely qualified to provide second opinions after a cancer diagnosis.
We offer:
- Clinical trials: Henry Ford actively participates in cancer clinical trials, which test new ways of caring for cancer. When you seek a second opinion from us, you may qualify for a trial that gives you access to therapies not widely available.
- Innovative treatments: We are often the first to pioneer new tests and treatments. For example, we’re a national leader for minimally invasive robotic surgery and were the first in the state to offer a multi-cancer early detection blood test. We were also among the first in the world to offer Edge® and ViewRay MRIdian®, the most advanced radiosurgery treatments available.
- Multispecialty expertise: Our team reviews your case and delivers a second opinion. Our cancer tumor boards give you coordinated input from medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, oncology nurses and other experts.
When to get a second opinion
Wanting confidence and peace of mind about your diagnosis is reason enough to seek a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis. You may also:
- Want more details about multiple cancer treatment options that are available
- Have a rare form of cancer
- Have been told invasive surgery is your only option
- Have been told your cancer is untreatable
- Have unanswered questions about your diagnosis
- Want a specialist in the type of cancer you have
- Want to confirm the initial diagnosis
- Want to explore other treatments or clinical trials
- Have cancer that returns after treatment
Take the next step
FAQs about cancer second opinions
Get answers to frequently asked questions about cancer second opinions.
Will my doctor be offended if I want a second opinion?
No. Second opinions are very common, especially in cancer care. Your doctor wants the best possible outcome for you, which includes getting input from other doctors. Don’t be afraid to speak openly and honestly with your doctor about your reasons for getting a second opinion.
Does insurance cover second opinions?
Sometimes. It depends on your insurance plan, initial diagnosis and treatment your doctor is recommending. Some plans require a second opinion if you need surgery. At Henry Ford, we help you review your plan and explain if and how much of the second opinion costs are covered.
Can I have a virtual second opinion so I don’t have to travel?
Yes. In many cases, you can have a video visit with a Henry Ford cancer specialist after we review your medical records, diagnosis and test results. This saves you the time, cost and stress of traveling. However, there may be instances where an in-person visit is necessary.
Do I have time to get a second opinion?
Many people want to start cancer treatment right away after receiving a diagnosis. They may feel they don’t have time for a second opinion. In some cases, this is true. But most people don’t need to begin treatment immediately. At Henry Ford, we make every effort to streamline the second opinion process so you can meet with our cancer specialists as quickly as possible.
How do I get a second opinion at Henry Ford?
Getting a second opinion at Henry Ford is easy. Learn more about how to get started and what you can expect throughout the process.