One must ask oneself what do I seek from the second opinion? Is it confirmation of my diagnosis? My diagnosis is confirmed but I want to know what treatment options are available or I just want a better explanation for my disease. Stick to what you seek from your second opinion and do not get side tracked.

Go prepared at the time of your second opinion visit. As your time with the specialist is going to be limited so make the best of it. Have your case history summarized. A good way is to have it typed out in a chronological order. When did the problem start, how did it progress and the treatment options that have been pursued. This shall save precious time and ensure that the specialist has all relevant data at his disposal prior to giving a second opinion.

Are there any cons to seeking a second opinion? While there are no real cons to seeking a second opinion, certain issues should be borne in mind. Remember there is no guarantee that a second opinion is right. The specialist may or may not voice the same diagnosis as your primary doctor. One can get side tracked and end up wasting precious time and money. Time and money that could have been used to begin treatment earlier. Do not get into the trap of doctor shopping, shopping till you get an opinion that you want to hear. Too many opinions have the potential for confusing you and leaving you undecided.

Seeking a second opinion is your prerogative as a patient but use it wisely.

Last thoughts?  How can patients and doctors develop better working relationships? 

Communication is the key for both parties. Talk to your doctor if something is on your mind or bothers you. As for the doctors we need to be more accommodating too. The doctor patient relationship shall traditionally been built on mutual trust and good will. "Prima non nocere" meaning "first do no harm" has been the ethic on which the medical profession was built. It is time to return to the basics.

Thank you for your questions.