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Second opinion

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.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last Revised February 3, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 03, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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