Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get My Medical Records?
Sometimes obtaining medical records can be a daunting process. If you prefer, we will do this for you after we receive your signed Registration and Authorization Form, your Patient Health Information Release Form and the other three forms requested on the Information sheet (see "How To Get A Second Opinion"), or you can obtain your medical records yourself by authorizing their release to us from the physicians and medical departments (radiology, pathology, etc.) involved in your cancer diagnosis and treatment.
When Are My Records Reviewed?
As information arrives, your records are submitted for an initial review to the Panel Chair or our Medical Director, who may request additional information or contact you to make sure our service is appropriate for you. At least one week prior to your panel date, your records are copied and sent, along with a case summary, to the physicians who will be sitting on your panel.
How Often Do Panels Meet?
Currently three panels, with three case reviews per panel, are scheduled each month.
How Long Does it Take to get a Panel Date?
We make an initial estimate of which panel will be available to you once you officially register. Consideration is given to the apparent urgency of the situation and to the availability of panel doctors whose special expertise may be needed. We make every effort to help expedite the process of accumulating the needed information, but it may take two weeks or more.
How Do I Prepare for a Panel?
We suggest that you prepare a short list of questions—usually three to five—that address your most important concerns. Bring a friend or family member with you as an extra pair of ears, as well as a blank tape to record the session.
What Happens on Panel Day?
You will be interviewed briefly by the Panel Chair to discuss any new information that you may have. A physical exam will not be performed. A light lunch is served while you await your turn to be invited into a private room to meet with your Review Panel physicians. You and they will discuss your diagnosis and treatment options and address your prepared questions.
What If I Cannot Remember the Details?
If you wish, your session will be tape-recorded for you to review later. We request that you bring a tape. In addition, the panel chair will write a summarizing consultation letter, which will be sent to your requested physicians, and you will receive a copy of the letter.
Is It Possible I won't Qualify for Your Service?
We occasionally receive requests for consultations from individuals whose situation does not fit within our areas of expertise or who otherwise do not qualify (See "How to get a Second Opinion"). In those cases we try to help you find a suitable alternative.
Can I Come Back for Another Opinion in The Future?
While most people come to see us only once, we are always willing to consider providing another review at a later date.