How does the cost-effectiveness of second opinions in oncology compare to the standard of care?
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The cost-effectiveness of second opinions in oncology compared to the standard of care is a complex issue. Multidisciplinary team (MDT) decision-making in cancer care, which often involves second opinions, can incur significant costs ranging from £415 to £38,327 per month per MDT, impacting healthcare resources . Second opinions are sought by a minority of patients for reassurance and to explore treatment options, indicating a patient-centered approach . While second opinions can enhance patient confidence and provide additional insights, they may also lead to conflicting recommendations among oncology fellows, highlighting the variability in opinions and potential delays in treatment initiation . The clinical value of second opinions in oncology, in terms of diagnostic and treatment changes and their impact on morbidity and prognosis, remains an area with limited data for conclusive cost-effectiveness comparisons .
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| Costs for second opinion MDTs in oncology can be substantial, urging the need for efficient processes to balance thoroughness and resource utilization, ensuring clarity on the referral's purpose and limitations. |
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