Getting a Second Opinion for Multiple Myeloma
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/ Updated February 9th, 2022

Getting a Second Opinion for Multiple Myeloma

Medically Reviewed: Dr. Doris Hansen Written by: Lindsay Modglin
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Second Opinions

  • Whether you're at the beginning of your cancer journey or battling a recurrence, one of the most significant things you can do is seek another opinion from a multiple myeloma specialist.
  • The process of getting a second opinion varies from patient to patient. In general, many patients talk to their doctor about getting a second opinion. Based on the discussion, some doctors will recommend a specific specialist or cancer center that deals with multiple myeloma frequently.
  • Others will simply do their own research on specialists and cancer centers with expertise in myeloma and make an appointment to visit the office to discuss their needs with the physician.
If you have been recently diagnosed with multiple myeloma, you may be feeling a range of emotions, from fear to confusion. You’re also probably wondering what your next steps should be.

Dr. James Hoffman of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami talks to SurvivorNet about the importance of getting a second opinion for multiple myeloma.

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Whether you’re at the beginning of your cancer journey or battling a recurrence, one of the most significant things you can do is seek another opinion from a multiple myeloma specialist.

RELATED: What Are the Symptoms and Issues Associated With Multiple Myeloma?

“The landscape of treating myeloma has evolved very rapidly,” says Dr. Hoffman. “I think that every myeloma patient should at least get, if possible, a second opinion.”

A second opinion can be very liberating, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your diagnosis. Speaking to multiple specialists who focus on your cancer type can help to confirm your diagnosis and ensure that you are getting the best possible care.

How to Get a Second Opinion

The process of getting a second opinion varies from patient to patient. In general, many patients talk to their doctor about getting a second opinion. Based on the discussion, some doctors will recommend a specific specialist or cancer center that deals with multiple myeloma frequently.

RELATED: Your Guide to Multiple Myeloma Treatment in Miami

Others will simply do their own research on specialists and cancer centers with expertise in myeloma and make an appointment to visit the office to discuss their needs with the physician.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your second opinion:

  1. Talk to your current doctor: They may recommend a specialist or a cancer center specifically.
  2. Talk to others who have been treated successively for your type of multiple myeloma: They may have suggestions for you.
  3. Do your own research on multiple myeloma: Knowing what you’re up against will help you be an active participant in your treatment decisions.
  4. Make a list of questions you want to ask the multiple myeloma specialist: Be prepared to ask a range of questions regarding your diagnosis and treatment options. Be sure to bring up any specific concerns you have regarding your original treatment plan.
  5. Visit this second opinion center: Some facilities will offer telehealth appointments for second opinions to non-local patients.
  6. Take all records with you when you visit the specialist, including your pathology reports, x-rays, scans, and medication list: This information will help the specialist understand your condition and tailor your treatment plan accordingly.

The Importance of a Second Opinion

“When patients are being treated for multiple myeloma, there’s a lot of value in having an academic myeloma focus team,” adds Dr. Hoffman. “That can be as simple as an occasional second opinion consultation virtual or in person, or perhaps just having your doctor reach out to someone that he or she knows and collaborating.”

Many facilities offer second opinion services to myeloma patients. At the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami, Dr. Hoffman is one of several academic hematologists who provide virtual second opinions for multiple myeloma cases across the country.

“There are excellent doctors in every type of practice, from community practices to hybrid academic practices to academic practices. And we all work together with exactly the same goals.”

Whether you choose to visit an academic cancer center or a community doctor, getting a second opinion is an important step in ensuring that you are getting the best possible treatment for your condition.

Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.

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Patient Pathfinder

We’re here to help. Have you had any treatment for myeloma yet?

You might want to check out some top experts outlining the initial treatment for myeloma.

Here’s the link:


Multiple Myeloma Initial Treatment

Learn More

Got it. Are you looking for maintenance treatment?

You might want to check out some top experts outlining maintenance treatment for myeloma.

Here’s the link:


Multiple Myeloma Maintenance Treatment

Learn More

Ok. Has your Myeloma come back? Here are some useful resources:

Here’s the link:


Multiple Myeloma Reoccurrence Treatment

Learn More

If you’ve had at least four treatments that have not worked or stopped working you might be a candidate for a treatment called CAR T Therapy.

Here’s the link:


CAR-T Therapy for Multiple Myeloma

Learn More
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