How to Obtain a Second Opinion for Breast Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment

Some people choose to get a second opinion prior to having breast surgery or after they meet with their oncologist. You may get a second opinion at any time.

Sometimes patients are reluctant to seek a second opinion because they feel they may be insulting their doctor's judgment. We will support your decision to seek a second opinion. Likewise, you should not feel that you are obligated or must have a second opinion. If you are unsure whether or not you would like a second opinion, you can read through and try to answer these questions to help you make a decision. Always feel free to discuss the subject with your surgeon or the breast care coordinator at (707) 393-4698.

The following guidelines are intended to assist you in obtaining a second opinion in a timely manner. You have three options for getting a second opinion.

At Kaiser Santa Rosa

• This is covered under your health plan as a regular visit.
• You will get a fair, unbiased opinion from a different surgeon or oncologist at the same medical center.
• You can discuss this with your doctor or the breast care coordinator. A referral will be sent and you will be called regarding the appointment time.

At Another Kaiser Facility that has Surgeons/Oncologists

• This is covered under your health plan as a regular visit.
• You can discuss this with your doctor or the breast care coordinator. Your Kaiser Santa Rosa physician will send a consult and you will be called by the other facility regarding an appointment time.
• All your medical information and mammograms will be transferred for you.

Outside the Kaiser System

• This is not covered under your Kaiser health plan. You will be responsible for the entire cost.
• Contact the breast care coordinator at (707) 393-4698 and let her know whom you will be seeing and the date of the appointment. She will help you gather all the information necessary for an outside second opinion. It is necessary that you come in to sign an authorization form at three places: Medical Imaging, Pathology and the Business Office. Allow 4-5 working days before the date of your outside Kaiser second opinion.
• The pathology slides and radiology films will need to be returned, by you, to the appropriate department. The copies of your medical record and pathology report are yours to keep.