Private second opinions for cancer treatment
Our consultants offer second opinions and assess suitability for proton beam therapy.
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Cancers we offer a second opinion
We can offer second opinions with a highly experienced oncology specialist for a wide range of cancers.
Learn moreWhat is proton beam therapy?
Proton beam therapy (PBT) is an exact form of radiation therapy. Our consultants offer second opinions and assess suitability for proton beam therapy.
Learn moreAbout Proton International London
Located in central London, our centre specialises in private proton beam therapy for a diverse range of cancers.
Learn moreContact us for a second opinion
If you or someone you know is interested in a second opinion following a cancer diagnosis, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
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Looking for other treatment options for cancer?
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, a dedicated team of doctors specialising in this type of cancer will be by your side. This team may include a surgeon, a radiation oncologist, and a medical oncologist. Together, they will discuss your diagnosis, and the stage of your cancer, and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to you.
Before asking for a second opinion, it is worth asking your consultant team to go over your diagnosis and explain anything you don’t understand. If you’re unhappy with your diagnosis or would like to consider a different course of treatment, do discuss this with them. Your consultant team will be happy to explain things and, in many cases, there may be no need for a second opinion.
However, if you would like to undertake further research and seek a second opinion, then you are welcome to. Throughout every stage of your cancer journey, we remind you to ask any questions or seek clarification.
What is a cancer treatment second opinion?
A cancer treatment second opinion is when you seek the expertise of another cancer specialist or team of doctors to review your diagnosis and treatment plan.
A second opinion can:
- Help confirm diagnosis – You may want confirmation that your diagnosis is accurate. This is especially important for rare or complex cancers where the initial diagnosis might be uncertain.
- Explore treatment options – You may want to explore different treatment options. Different doctors may have varying experiences and approaches to treatment, and a second opinion can provide insights into alternative therapies, clinical trials, or newer treatments including proton beam therapy.
- Clarify information – You may want help in clarifying any doubts or confusion you may have about your diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment side effects.
- Offer peace of mind – You may want further reassurance that you are on the right path and receiving the best care possible.
- Verify a treatment plan – You might seek a second opinion to confirm that the recommended treatment plan is the most appropriate and up-to-date option for your specific type and stage of cancer.
It’s important to note that seeking a second opinion does not necessarily mean that your initial doctor was wrong. Cancer treatment can vary based on many factors, including the type of cancer, its stage, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.
Second opinions at Proton International London
At Proton International London, we understand the overwhelming impact a cancer diagnosis can have, both for patients and their loved ones. It’s crucial to have confidence in the treatment options available and to ensure that they are tailored to maximise your quality of life, both in the short and long term.
Our centre boasts a team of highly experienced world-leading specialist consultant radiation oncologists. They are internationally recognised for their pioneering work in cancer research and treatment. Alongside providing private access to proton beam therapy, our consultants offer second opinions and assess suitability for this cutting-edge radiotherapy, known for its precision and effectiveness in reducing the side effects of treatment.
Located in central London, our centre specialises in private proton beam therapy for a diverse range of cancers, including lung, prostate, sarcomas, brain tumours, head and neck and paediatric cases. We maintain a close collaboration with the renowned specialists and cancer teams at University College London Hospital NHS Trust, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your care.
Getting a second opinion is a way to gather more information and make informed decisions about your care. The primary goal for all oncologists is your well-being and achieving the best possible outcome for you.
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Will a second opinion tell you if you are eligible for proton beam therapy?
The consultant radiation oncologists who work with Proton International London are experts in the treatment of cancers using proton beam therapy.
Proton beam therapy (PBT) is an exact form of radiation therapy that uses high-energy protons to target and destroy cancer cells, while minimising the radiation dose to surrounding normal tissues. This makes it an excellent option to treat patients, as it can deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumour while reducing the risk of side effects to normal tissues.
PBT is more expensive than traditional radiation therapy, but the reduced risk of side effects may offset the cost.
Proton beam therapy isn’t suitable for everyone and isn’t widely available. At Proton International London we are trying to change that and hope to improve access for those seeking a safe and effective treatment with potentially reduced side effects.
Some of the benefits of PBT for treating cancer
– Precision – PBT can be precisely aimed and controlled to deliver a targeted radiation dose to the tumour while minisming exposure to healthy tissue surrounding the cancer. This can help to reduce the risk of side effects.
– Safety – PBT is a safe and well tolerated treatment option with a low risk of severe side effects.
What to expect during your second opinion consultation
Before your appointment with our consultant radiation oncologists, you will be asked to share your medical notes and history, including scan reports and biopsy/surgical pathology reports. Our helpful and friendly team can work with your Hospital Trust to ensure we have all the relevant information we need, and will transfer your scans for our doctors to review.
A consultant oncologist who specialises in your field of cancer will review your medical information and scans. We will invite you for a consultation with the oncologist which can either be online, over the phone or in person in clinic in Central London.
During this appointment, the oncologist will go through your medical histology and answer any queries you may have and will discuss your eligibility for proton beam therapy or other treatments. A report will be prepared after the appointment to summarise the discussion, which you will be able to take to your original doctor. You can also request that the oncologist you meet liaises directly with your doctor on the opportunities discussed.
Enquire about a private second opinion with us today
If you or someone you know is interested in a second opinion following a cancer diagnosis, don’t hesitate to contact our team using the form below.
We will get back to you as soon as we can.
Frequently asked questions about second opinions
How can I pay for a second opinion?
If you wish to seek a second opinion privately, you can self-pay the cost of an appointment. Appointments with private consultant oncologists start from £150 depending on their experience.
Does health insurance cover the cost of a second opinion?
Many private health insurance providers will cover a second opinion for a wide range of diagnoses and treatments. We will advise you to contact your health insurer before scheduling an appointment if you wish to pay for a second opinion consultation using private health insurance.
Will a second opinion contradict my primary oncologist’s recommendation?
It’s important to note that seeking a second opinion does not necessarily mean that the initial doctor was wrong. Cancer treatment can vary based on many factors, including the type of cancer, its stage, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. It may be that the opinion from our consultant oncologist is in agreement with your initial doctor, which is reassuring, and gives you more information and often a better understanding of your situation and treatment plan.
Getting a second opinion is a way to gather more information and make informed decisions about your care. The primary goal for all oncologists is your well-being and achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Will a second opinion delay my cancer treatment?
Yes, a second option may delay your cancer treatment. It is important to remember that a second opinion doesn’t necessarily mean that you will be offered a different treatment or that you will change to a different team or hospital. At Proton International London we will always aim to respond to any enquiry promptly to avoid any delay.
