Since When are Second Opinion's a Bad Thing?

For most of my adult life, I have battled sinus infections. Lately, however, I have been losing, losing big time. I have been treated quarterly for infections for the past year and a half. Far too often, and my doctor and I have had enough. He sent me for a cat scan, and referred me to an ENT (Ears, Nose and Throat Specialist).

About two weeks ago, I met with the lovely, Dr. B, a well known and equally respected ENT here on the North Fork. Dr. B read the cat scan to which I will spare you the gory details. He did determine that sinus surgery was necessary, a pretty non-invasive procedure that will be done ambulatory at the local hospital.

When I shared the news with family and friends, it was recommended that I get a second opinion, as it is still surgery, and a similar specialist should really concur. I agreed.

By the referral of my boss, I went to see Dr. H, an experienced ENT up Island. Dr. H and I met and hit it off really well. A wealth of knowledge, he thoroughly explains the nasal anatomy and opens up a new door for the headaches I suffer, indicating that my ultimate prognosis may stem from migraines, and not necessarily from sinuses. He also suggests an alternative to surgery, a four week run of antibiotics to clear the gunk the surgery would remove.

When I inquired about another procedure that Dr. B suggested be done simultaneously with the sinus surgery, he deemed it unnecessary, and asked why would I ask such a question.

Once Dr. H concluded that my visit was for a "second opinion", he stood up from his little doctor stool, stated "oh, you have already been to an ENT", and informed me he had other patients to see. He told me to ask him my most important question, as he needed to wrap up our visit.

I was dismissed. I. Was. Dismissed. By a doctor!

Needless to say, I was beyond upset.

I think it's important to note, Dr. H performs the same surgery that Dr. B does.

Holding back the tears, I assured Dr. H that I appreciated his expertise and thorough explanations. I reminded him that my boss, his patient, had recommended that I come see him, because "he is the best". I also reminded him that since someone suggested surgery, I just needed to be sure it was the right thing to do. I was back pedaling, why was I back pedaling? I didn't do anything wrong, did I?

I asked my final question:

"Why did you become so stand-offish, once you knew I was here for a second opinion?"

Yes. I. Did.

He deserved it.

He was being not only unethical and completely unprofessional, but he was down right rude.

Dr. H replied, "I have told you what I think you should do. I need to see other patients now, and you need to make a decision."

Clearly, my decision was to never see Dr. H again.

I have also decided to go through with the surgery, with Dr. B, which is scheduled for 2 weeks from today. Wish me luck.

Peace.