From 40,000 to 80,000 people die from suspected misdiagnosis a year; and up to 160,000 people come to serious harm due to this error in just the U.S. This could be the result of poor communication between patients and staff, misinterpreting lab results- or lack of any testing what-so-ever; in fact, there are too many factors to list of how a nurse or doctor can make this type of mistake. Unfortunately, for people who have a carrare built on the grounds of saving lives, there is little space for accidents, as they nearly always have grave results.

So, what can you, as a patient, do to prevent this? The obvious answer: get a second opinion. However, this answer becomes far more complex when you throw in the possibility of lack of insurance coverage or your doctor discouraging you from pursuing another doctor's opinion.

A second opinion costs money, up to $745 dollars depending on the issue. The reason for this is because it’s a review of your medical history, the method your current doctor is placing on you, and new tests. Like many things, your insurance should cover it. But it is not guaranteed. So, what if your unable to pay out of pocket? Then what?

Doctors are typically very open to new second opinions. But, you may be surprised to find that this a barrier. Have you ever found yourself typing into the search bar: how to tell your doctor that you want a second opinion without offending them? It sounds ridiculous, to have to curve your own decisions, or tread carefully, because of your doctor, doesn’t it? You should not find yourself stuck in a corner because of that.

These are a few of the reasons for hesitation when consulting other doctors on your treatment, and, although i’ve introduced many questions in this article, the one advice from me to you is this:

prioritize your health first.

If you die, you won’t need to worry about any of the things keeping you up at night. So save your money, put petty squabbles aside, because you have a chance to save your own life by making this decision.