Some conversations in veterinary practice are trickier than others. Sometimes we need a little guidance on them. What happens when you want to ask your vet for a second opinion? Do you need their permission? How does the process work? How do you get access to your notes?
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Second opinions aren’t a problem
The first and most important thing to acknowledge is that asking for a second opinion is perfectly reasonable and not something to be embarrassed about. There is guidance outlining how vets should behave surrounding this process set out by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. There is absolutely no doubt that the provision of history, clinical notes and relevant tests to the vet providing the second opinion is helpful and will mean you get more from your consultation with them.
In deciding on a second opinion, it is worth considering who do you want a second opinion from
Another general practitioner? An advanced practitioner with a certificate in the relevant area? A specialist? From another vet within the same practice? From a different practice? This is your choice but honestly is something that is worth discussing with your vet. They can help you understand the full range of options open to you and can help you with the process of obtaining it.
Asking for a second opinion referral from your vet does not have to mean the end of your relationship with your vet
People ask for second opinions for all sorts of reasons. Of course, sometimes, clients will ask for a second opinion or more probably move vets because there is a breakdown in the relationship – but it is more common to ask for a second opinion whilst maintaining the relationship with the primary vet.
Reasons for asking for a second opinion include but are not limited to:
- Being offered multiple options and wanting another opinion about how to weigh up the competing pros and cons
- Wanting an opinion from someone with a specialist interest in your area of concern
- Wanting an alternative perspective
- Help accepting a really difficult diagnosis or piece of news
- Wanting another professional to talk to about the situation
I think it is critical to emphasise again that this is not a rejection of your own vet, their advice or perspective. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is very clear that a second opinion is not about taking over a case and that it should go back to primary practice unless the client asks to change vets. A second opinion can be just that, a second opinion and a return to your primary vet for ongoing care.
Sometimes people feel embarrassed asking for a second opinion
They feel it is a rejection or a doubting of your vet. That is very understandable but like always an honest dialogue is important. If you feel uncomfortable about asking then sometimes setting out your concern in writing can be helpful. Perhaps start by laying out what you feel has gone well and what your remaining concerns are. Considering who you are thinking about asking for a second opinion from can be helpful. Allowing your vet time to respond to the concerns and arrange for a transfer of the notes can be time well spent. You may want to ask your vet for a suggestion of someone for a second opinion. Most vets want our clients to feel good about decisions made and have a good network of colleagues who can offer a second opinion.
Just remember this is not unreasonable. Keep the dialogue going if you want to. Let them know what the second opinion was. Ask them to liaise with the other vet if appropriate. You can have a collaborative, team approach to your pet’s health and ultimately this can be good for them. Also, if your primary vet disagrees with the second opinion that may also be worth listening to.
It is a difficult conversation but remember you are advocating for your pet, gaining information and ultimately trying to do the best for your pet. Something that the vast majority of veterinary surgeons will respect.
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