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A second opinion is an evaluation by a doctor after a person has already been examined, diagnosed, or treated by another doctor.

A second opinion is not done to prove or disprove a doctor's recommendation. Rather, the purpose of getting a second opinion is to explore options, especially if a person is having difficulty choosing a treatment or if a diagnosis is unclear.

Current as of: September 10, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Catherine Devany Serio, PhD - Psychology, Behavioral Health & Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Brian O'Brien, MD, FRCPC - Internal Medicine