When managing chronic conditions or facing complex medical decisions, seeking a second opinion can be a game-changer. Too often, people are hesitant to get one, believing it may not be covered by insurance or fearing the time and effort involved.
Alicia Spataro, RN, BSN, a member of the Coastal HIF Mobile Care Coordinator team, shared a story about a patient whose career was saved by getting a second opinion.
The patient, a school bus driver, had been living with diabetes for over 20 years. Although he had finally gained control of his blood sugar and blood pressure, long-term damage to his circulatory system had already taken a toll. He developed a sore on his foot.
The patient initially sought care from his local community hospital. The surgeon there recommended an above-the-knee amputation because there were concerns that the vascular blockage lower in the leg would hinder healing and lead to even more complications.
The patient and his family were devastated. Losing his leg would have meant the end of his career and a significant blow to his quality of life. Nurse Spataro tried to convince him to get a second opinion at a university hospital, but he was resistant. The family only had one car, and he didn’t want to drive too far. Eventually, she convinced him and found a second surgeon who was experienced in a cutting-edge vascular procedure that would give a less drastic surgery a better chance at healing. Instead of removing the entire leg, he recommended a procedure to amputate just half of the foot. This approach not only saved the patient’s leg but also allowed him to retain his ability to drive, ensuring he could continue supporting his family.
Nurse Spataro’s Advice: First, for more complicated situations, consider going to a hospital connected with a university. They often attract the best and the brightest doctors, and are also centers for innovation.
Second, most people don’t realize that most health insurance covers second opinions. If the diagnosis is unclear, you have doubts or concerns about the treatment plans, your treatment isn’t working, you have been diagnosed with a rare or life-threatening condition, or you simply want to be sure, it’s absolutely worth the time and effort.
And no, you won’t offend your doctor. Doctors consult with each other all the time, and any doctor worth their salt will encourage you to get all the information you need to make important health decisions.