Before starting treatment, you might want a second opinion about your diagnosis and treatment plan. Some insurance companies require a second opinion; others may cover a second opinion if you or your doctor requests it. There are a number of ways to find a doctor for a second opinion:

• Your doctor may refer you or you may ask for a referral to one or more specialists. At cancer centers, several specialists often work together as a team. The team may include a surgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, speech pathologist, and nutritionist. At some cancer centers, you may be able to see them all on the same day.

• The Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell you about treatment centers near you.

• A local medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school can often provide the names of specialists in your area.

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