Getting a Second Opinion for Cancer

A second opinion is not rude or disloyal. It is a standard, recommended practice that can confirm your treatment plan or reveal better options.

Why Get a Second Opinion

Cancer treatment decisions are complex and sometimes subjective. Different oncologists may recommend different approaches for the same cancer. A second opinion can confirm your current plan (giving you peace of mind), suggest a different approach, identify clinical trials you qualify for, or catch a misdiagnosis (rare but possible).

Major guidelines (NCCN, ESMO) and patient advocacy groups recommend second opinions for all new cancer diagnoses. In India, where treatment quality varies significantly between centres, a second opinion from a specialised cancer hospital is especially valuable.

When to Seek One

Consider a second opinion if: you have a rare cancer type, surgery is recommended (especially if extensive), you are told nothing more can be done, you are unsure about the recommended treatment, you want to explore clinical trial options, or simply for peace of mind. There is no wrong time to ask.

How to Get One

Collect your records: pathology report (most important), imaging (CT/MRI/PET scans on CD), blood reports, previous treatment summary. Contact the second opinion centre and ask what they need. Many centres in India now offer tele-consultation second opinions.

HealOnco provides free second opinion consultations for all new cancer diagnoses. Send your reports to our team, and an oncologist will review them within 48 hours and provide a written opinion with treatment recommendations.

Cost

In-person second opinion consultation: INR 1,000-3,000 at most cancer centres. Online tele-consultation: INR 500-2,000. Pathology review (if slides need re-reading): INR 2,000-5,000. Molecular testing review: INR 5,000-15,000 if new tests are needed. HealOnco second opinions: free for initial review.

Frequently Asked Questions