Second opinions are most helpful when you bring a focused summary and a clear set of questions—without turning it into a long story.
Quick checklist (2 minutes)
- Write your top 1–3 priorities in order
- Summarize symptoms and timeline (only what you know)
- Bring a medication/supplement list and allergies
- Bring relevant documents (referrals, summaries, test names/dates)
Prepare a concise summary
- Why you want a second opinion
- What you want confirmed or clarified
- Key timeline points (only what you know)
What to bring
- Prior visit summaries
- Test names and dates
- Any written instructions
Questions to ask
- What are the main options to consider?
- What information is missing?
- What would you recommend as next steps to discuss with my primary clinician?
Printable notes section
Use these prompts to take quick notes during the appointment:
- Main takeaways: ________________________________
- Next steps: ________________________________________
- Follow-up timing: ___________________________________
- Questions I still have: _____________________________
Want this customized to you?
MyDoctorVisit.com can turn your answers (and optional documents) into a clean visit agenda, smart questions, and a printable packet. Create your packet here.
If you want a plain-English explanation of what a medical document says (informational only), visit ExplainMyDoctor.com.