Getting a second opinion for any medical diagnosis is important. However, after a cancer diagnosis, it’s essential to get a second opinion from a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center.
Why? That’s a good question, and one that the experts at The University of Kansas Cancer Center make their life’s work to answer. In short, diagnoses and treatment plans often change when patients seek a second opinion at an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center — which means better patient outcomes.
Let’s dive into the numbers:
- 43% of breast cancer patients had a change in diagnosis when they went to an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center for a second opinion
- 91% of men with local-stage prostate cancer were recommended surgery after a second opinion vs. 71% from the first opinion, according to a study
- 10%-62% of cases with patient-initiated, second-opinion consultations lead to a major change in diagnosis, treatment, or prognosis
Where should Kansas Citians go for a second opinion?
The University of Kansas Cancer Center. As the region’s only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center (and one of just 53 in the nation), they provide the gold standard of cancer care.
The center’s team is comprised of 150+ disease-specific cancer specialists (read: more specialists and sub-specialists than any other cancer center in the state) dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for every patient with personalized cancer care.
The downside? Actually, there are none. With more information, you can get the confidence your original care plan is the best option, or you get a new/better care plan — it’s a win/win.
Learn more about the center or call nurse navigation at (913) 588-1227 to make an appointment. Explore treatment options.*
