Cancer Second Opinion Program

Any diagnosis of cancer deserves a second opinion. The Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Second Opinion Program makes it easy to request a second opinion after you’ve been diagnosed with any type of cancer. In many cases, it will take just one visit. 

Cancer is a complex group of diseases with many treatment options available. Everything should be tailored to you as an individual, and it’s important that you be involved in deciding the course of treatment that is best for you. The choices you make now will affect your health and your life long into the future.

Dedicated Expertise Means More Choices, Best Possible Results

We combine experience with superior health care delivery and a dedicated patient focus to deliver the best possible outcomes. 

Our cancer physicians are experts in their fields and understand all the nuances of their individual cancer specialties. They are keenly aware of the many treatment options available and understand the importance of forming treatment plans that fit your quality-of-life goals and future plans.

As part of an academic medical center, we have the resources, technology, expertise and compassion to accurately evaluate your diagnosis and effectively treat your cancer.

A second opinion will confirm your diagnosis, tell you more about your treatment options, help you choose the best course of action for you, and introduce you to some of the country’s leading cancer experts.

The Value of a Cancer Second Opinion

Unparalleled expertise — We are proud to have some of the country’s top cancer physicians treating patients. The depth of training, technology, expertise and resources on our team means you’re more likely to have a better outcome the first time around — with less chance of your cancer recurring.

Prompt access to appointments — We will work with you to schedule your second opinion visit in a timeframe that works for you and your schedule. In many cases, and with the appropriate background information, it will take just one visit for us to offer our opinion about your diagnosis and treatment options.

Broad range of diagnostic and treatment options — You'll have access to the full spectrum of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapies and targeted interventions. We also offer a broad range of clinical trials for all types of cancer – offering you options that may not be widely available.

Active participation in the decision-making process — We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan and to make sure our recommendations fit your life and your goals.

Ease of use — From your first contact with us and throughout the second opinion process, a new patient coordinator will work closely with you to ensure we have all the information needed to make an accurate evaluation of your condition. The coordinator will even help you obtain medical records needed before your appointment.

Clinical trials — Because we are a leading academic medical center, there are often opportunities for patients to participate  in clinical trials of new treatment approaches in surgery, radiation therapy and medical therapies, as well as other types of clinical research, such as quality of life studies.

Peace of mind — Seeking a second opinion is common and encouraged throughout the medical community. You won’t offend your physician by seeking one. A second opinion will confirm your diagnosis and assure you that you are on the right treatment path - or recommend a new approach. You could also learn about treatment options available to you that you never considered. 

What to Expect from a Cancer Second Opinion

Once you’ve requested a second opinion appointment, a new patient coordinator will talk with you and then gather your medical records, test results and any other information needed for an accurate evaluation. During your visit, a physician will review your medical records, conduct a physical exam and get a sense of your priorities and concerns.

Because there are so many variables to consider, the physician will help you understand risks and benefits of your treatment options, weigh the pros and cons and gain a complete understanding. Factors such as age, other health issues, family history, your personal philosophy on risk vs. benefit and your cancer stage should be considered before choosing a course of treatment. What’s right for one person could be absolutely wrong for another. We will engage you in the decision-making process.

If additional specialists should be consulted regarding your case, we may be able to arrange these consultations during your second opinion visit. If further tests are required, staff will work with you to arrange appointments. Our goal is always to provide you and your doctor with a state-of-the-science evaluation and treatment plan.

Insurance

Most insurance companies cover second opinion visits. You will need to check with your insurance carrier regarding your plan coverage prior to your visit.