It can be hard to think through the options when you have been given a cancer diagnosis. A second opinion is simply consulting another doctor or specialist to gain additional insights into your diagnosis and treatment options. It doesn’t have to mean you’re doubting your current doctor’s competence; rather, you’re using all available resources to make the most informed decision about your health.
I often speak with patients, to review the investigations they’ve had to date, a diagnosis they’ve been given or a treatment they’ve been recommended. It’s not unusual for patients to ask for this themselves, or for colleagues to refer to me to ask for my thoughts in complex situations.
Asking for a second opinion is a very straightforward, and common occurrence. Nobody will be offended if you request a referral to speak with me or if you approach me directly. Together we will review your results and treatment plan.
Clinical Expertise
I am Dr James Wilson, a Consultant Clinical Oncologist at University College London Hospital and an Honorary Associate Professor at UCL. I received clinical and academic training at some of the world’s most prestigious cancer centres. My DPhil (PhD) from the University of Oxford focussed on the ways in which cancer imaging can be used to personalise chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments for patients and how new drugs can be combined with radiotherapy to improve outcomes. I completed my training at the Royal Marsden Hospital as a NIHR Clinical Lecturer at the Institute of Cancer Research before taking up a consultant post in one of London’s most famous teaching hospitals.
I see patients at The Cromwell Hospital, The London Clinic, The Harley Street Clinic, HCA at UCH, LOC (Leaders in Oncology Care) and Proton International London and I also provide second opinions on cancer treatments via virtual appointments for those who live out of London.
Following a diagnosis of cancer, you need to feel you have all of the information to make a positive decision about your treatment and the care you will receive. Sometime, you may just need a little longer with somebody who can answer your questions so that you have a good grasp of what has happened and what is being recommended. In my private clinic, we can take as long as you need to gain the insights you require to move forward. I will have reviewed all your diagnostic investigations, before we meet so that you get the most out of your appointment by getting personalised information on your unique situation. Following this second opinion, I will have given you:
The full picture
A second opinion can provide new perspectives on treatment options that may not have previously been considered.
Explore alternative treatments
A second opinion might reveal an adapted treatment path, more suited to the specificities of your unique condition. This alternative may not have been considered before, or may not have been available at other locations.
Confidence in your health decisions
With more information comes greater confidence. Knowing that you have explored all your options can give you peace of mind that you’re making the best decision for your health.
More often than not, my role in giving a second opinion is to provide additional information about a diagnosis or treatment, rather than offer a vastly different diagnosis or therapy option.
How to get the most out of your second opinion appointment
1. Think about, and make notes on, the questions you might have and your reasons for seeking out a second opinion. Some people don’t have any questions or concerns, but would just value some time to review what has happened so far with a cancer specialist
2. Gather your medical records: try to pull together as much as you can – letters, test results (scan reports, biopsy results). The more information I have about you before we meet, the more helpful the consultation will be
3. Speak with your current medical team: This is by no means essential, but your doctor or clinical nurse specialist is an excellent resource when seeking a second opinion. They can assist you in understanding which questions to ask
4. Consider who you might want to accompany you to your appointment. While you might prefer to come alone, having another person with you can often be beneficial – they can listen to the information alongside you and assist in reflecting on it afterwards
Are there any disadvantages?
Seeking a second opinion on cancer treatment may make you concerned about delays or the possibility of receiving conflicting advice. It’s important to view these concerns as steps towards a fully informed health decision rather than drawbacks.
My commitment to you is to conduct the review of your results and treatment plan efficiently and thoroughly, doing all I can to minimise delays. I will discuss complex decisions within a multidisciplinary meeting at a leading London cancer centre, keeping in mind a commitment to help you make a treatment decision without unnecessary hold ups. While you may worry that hearing a different perspective may confuse you, it will contribute to a deeper understanding of your treatment choices – allowing you to make the best decision for you, informed by information given to you from a specialist, tailored to a way that you can understand.
You are in control
Remember, your health and well-being are of utmost importance. Contacting me for a second opinion is a proactive step in taking control of your healthcare journey. It shows a commitment to making informed decisions about, and taking control of, your health care.
Where can I be seen for a second opinion?
As well as offering face-to-face consultations for a second opinion at any of the private hospitals listed on the ‘Locations’ page, I can also offer virtual consultations if that is what you’d prefer.
I see patients with the following conditions to offer a second opinion
LUNG CANCER
SKIN CANCER
MELANOMA
THYMOMA AND THYMIC CARCINOMA
MESOTHELIOMA
MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA
Patient Testimonial
We went for a second opinion on my stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis and cannot praise Dr Wilson highly enough. He totally reassured me that the treatment offered by NHS was my best option & explained everything in a more positive way than my previous experience with NHS oncologist. He also said explained other options he can offer me further down the line. All in all, a brilliant consultant with a lovely manner.