Cancer Second Opinion Services

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for any type of cancer. That’s why we offer second opinions to allow you to explore all your options.

Benefits of a second opinion

We know a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Seeking a second opinion at UCI Health allows you to play an active role in deciding what comes next. 

Getting a second opinion is common, especially when you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. It doesn’t mean that you don’t trust your doctor. In fact, most doctors welcome and even encourage second opinions.

A second opinion can help you face your diagnosis with the confidence and information you need to start treatment.

Taking time to get a second opinion can help you:

• Fully understand your diagnosis
• Learn about all your treatment options, including clinical trials
• Determine the right care team for your specific needs and preferences
• Gain a sense of control over and confidence in your cancer treatment plan

The UCI Health approach to cancer second opinions

As the only academic medical center in Orange County, the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center frequently provides second opinions. 
 
Our cancer clinicians each specialize in a specific type of cancer. For instance, we have doctors who focus on breast cancer, another team that treats lung cancer and so on. 

This means you’ll see a clinician who specializes in the specific type of cancer you have. With this high level of expertise, they’ll explain the latest treatments and research to help you make an informed decision.

When you call UCI Health for a second opinion, we’ll:

• Identify the right specialist for your needs 
• Let you know what imaging and test results we need and how to send them
• Schedule your second opinion appointment, often within two business days

What to expect

Before your second opinion appointment, your UCI Health physician will review your previous health records, imaging and test results. 

During your appointment, your clinician will: 

• Confirm or rule out your diagnosis
• Recommend additional testing, if needed
• Discuss your treatment options, including risks and benefits 
• Discuss clinical trials and research, which may include novel treatments not yet widely available 
• Perform an exam, if needed
• Answer your questions and discuss your top concerns 

After your appointment

We encourage you to discuss your options with your loved ones after your second opinion appointment. 

If you choose to get your cancer care at UCI Health, we will connect you with a nurse navigator to coordinate your next appointments. 

At your request, we can also share our findings and recommendations with your existing physician. 

Before your second opinion appointment

Here are a couple steps to take to prepare for your second opinion: 

Contact your insurance provider

In most cases, second opinions are covered by insurance. But it’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider beforehand to determine if there are any out-of-pocket costs. 

If you prefer to or must pay out of pocket for a second opinion, our consultation fee is $500.

Talk to your doctor

While you may worry about offending your existing doctor, most doctors welcome — and sometimes even encourage — second opinions. 

Your physician’s goal is to help you get the best possible care, and doctors often welcome other clinicians’ input.

Talk to friends and family

We encourage you to bring a loved one with you to your second opinion appointment. 

During your appointment, we’ll cover a lot of information. It often helps to bring someone with you to take notes and ask questions.

Why choose UCI Health for a second opinion

Cancer care close to home

We offer second opinion appointments at our cancer centers in Costa Mesa, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Orange and Yorba Linda. These convenient cancer care locations throughout Orange County allow you to get care as close to your home as possible.

Access to clinical trials

During your second opinion appointment, your provider can discuss if a clinical trial may be right for you. As the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Orange County, we have more than 100 open clinical trials. This gives you access to treatments and techniques that are not yet widely available.

Nationally recognized cancer care

Your second opinion will include input from experts who specialize in advanced treatments and technologies, supportive care and research. This combination is why the American Society of Clinical Oncology and others recognize us for excellence.