Lots of questions come with a cancer diagnosis.  

Am I getting the best care? Is this the right treatment plan? This is why doctors encourage patients to slow down and evaluate their options by getting a second opinion.  

“This is your journey. You are welcome and entitled to a second opinion,” said Tondre Buck, MD, hematologist/oncologist with Gibbs Cancer Center. “You ultimately make the final decision.”  

Patients who come to Gibbs Cancer Center for a second opinion are connected with a clinical navigator who specializes in their type of cancer. The patient will answer questions, and the navigator will guide them through the process of getting a second opinion from a doctor as quickly as possible. 

“It's a good idea to get a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis because the extent of information is massive,” said radiation oncologist Amy Curtis, MD. “And the importance of that information is also massive. Oftentimes a cancer diagnosis is life-altering and includes making the right decisions for your health and for your family, for your body. You really don't get another chance to make those decisions up front.” 

Gibbs Cancer Center experts work together to provide multidisciplinary care. Oncologists, radiation oncologists, genetic counselors, surgeons, nurse navigators and social workers gather to review each case. The group provides recommendations, such as whether additional tests should be performed, and develops a treatment plan based on the information shared. 

“The Gibbs approach to a second opinion is unique,” Dr. Curtis said. “We don’t just distill a patient down to a chart. It’s really important to hear your options and apply your values to those options.”  

Don’t feel guilty  

Some patients worry that requesting a second opinion implies that they don’t trust their doctor. But oncologists at Gibbs Cancer Center say not to worry.  

“If your doctor doesn’t want you to get a second opinion or they are offended, then you probably need a second opinion,” said Steven Corso, MD, an oncologist with Gibbs Cancer Center. “This is not about us.” 

The cancer diagnosis is all about the patient and helping them become comfortable with the information. 

“Most importantly, the patient is in charge of their care and involved in the decision making,” Dr. Corso said.  

Request a second opinion  

Do you have a confirmed cancer diagnosis and are interested in getting a second opinion from the experts at Gibbs Cancer Center? 

Call 1-855-DNA-GIBBS. 

First, an associate will gather information like your name, diagnosis and contact number.  

Then, a clinical navigator who specializes in your type of cancer will contact you within 48 business hours to answer your questions and guide you through the process as quickly as possible. 

For more information, call 1-855-DNA-GIBBS 

or visit SpartanburgRegional.com/SecondOpinion.