Johns Hopkins Pathology

When people get a serious diagnosis from their doctor, it's not uncommon to get a second opinion. Johns Hopkins Pathology has some of the world's leading medical experts.

Here are some frequently asked questions about second opinions.

• Why should I consider getting a second opinion?

  An accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure the most effective treatment. Your current doctor will frequently recommend a second opinion, if only to confirm his/her recommended course of action.
  
  A second opinion requires only that your doctor send your slides to us and sign the paperwork requesting the opinion. No additional visit or surgery is necessary.
  
  Our own Dr. Epstein discusses this further on the New York Times Web site...

• Do I need another biopsy or operation to get a second opinion?

  Not necessarily. If your physician sends your slides to Johns Hopkins Pathology, our pathologists, who are experts in diagnosing disorders such as yours, normally review them without the need for you to have any additional diagnostic procedures. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to obtain additional biopsies to confirm your diagnosis, but this cannot be determined until your slides have been reviewed.

• What is involved in getting a 2nd opinion from Johns Hopkins?

  Your physician or hospital sends your slides and a summary of your case to Johns Hopkins, where they will be reviewed by pathologists with expertise about diseases that you may have. The review process normally takes several days, after which Johns Hopkins sends a report of all findings to your physician and/or others you may designate; and your slides and other materials are returned. The costs of a second opinion from Johns Hopkins in not covered by your insurance. Medicare may not cover a second opinion requested by a physician. You will be required to complete an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN). An ABN permits you to make an informed choice about whether or not you want to receive the consultation knowing that you might have to pay for it yourself.

• Will it bother my doctor if I get a second opinion?

  Getting a second opinion of a diagnosis is common practice. Many people do this as a matter of routine, and your doctor should understand this.