A cancer diagnosis can change everything in an instant. For many patients, the first days and weeks bring uncertainty, concerns about next steps and a desire for clarity. That’s why more people across Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeastern Indiana are turning to St. Elizabeth Healthcare for a cancer second opinion – a service designed to provide reassurance, expert guidance and confidence during one of life’s most stressful moments.

A Second Opinion Is About Confidence, Not Doubt

Getting a second opinion doesn’t mean you distrust your doctor. It means you want to understand every option available and make the most informed decision possible. St. Elizabeth specialists help patients do exactly that, whether they were diagnosed elsewhere or simply want another expert review of their current treatment plan. No referral is required.

For patients like Holly, who sought a colorectal cancer second opinion, the experience was not only reassuring but personal. She found a team that treated her with dignity, respect and familiarity – the kind of environment where “everybody knows your name.”

When a Second Opinion Makes Sense

Many physicians encourage patients to seek second opinions. It may be the right step if you:

  • Have a new diagnosis and want to confirm the stage or explore all treatment options
  • Have a rare or complex cancer
  • Want to know if targeted therapy, immunotherapy or precision medicine is right for you
  • Are considering surgery and want to compare surgical options, including minimally invasive or robotic procedures
  • Simply want peace of mind before starting treatment

At St. Elizabeth, specialists review your diagnosis, test results and imaging to ensure you understand every path forward.

A Simplified Process During a Difficult Time

Facing cancer often means juggling appointments, gathering paperwork and keeping track of test results – all while managing emotions and daily life. St. Elizabeth makes the second opinion process as easy as possible:

  • No referral needed: Patients can call directly or request an appointment online.
  • Nurse Navigators take the lead: These experienced nurses collect medical records, imaging and pathology, schedule your consultation quickly and stay in touch every step of the way.
  • Expert pathology review: In many cases, oncology pathologists re-examine biopsy slides to confirm or refine the diagnosis, ensuring the most accurate starting point for treatment.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover second opinions as standard specialty visits. Financial Counselors are available to review benefits before the appointment to ensure no surprises.

What to Expect During the Visit

Second opinion consultations at St. Elizabeth are focused, compassionate and comprehensive. Your care team:

  • Reviews prior tests, scans and pathology
  • Confirms the diagnosis and cancer stage
  • Outlines all treatment options, including advanced therapies and precision medicine
  • Answers every question clearly, at your pace

You typically won’t need new tests right away. If additional genetic or precision medicine testing would be useful, the team explains why and helps guide you through it.

Most importantly, patients leave with a clearer understanding of their diagnosis and a roadmap for what comes next.

World-Class Cancer Care Under One Roof

The Yung Family Cancer Center at St. Elizabeth was built with patients in mind. The 250,000-square-foot facility brings comprehensive cancer services together in a single location, including:

  • Infusion therapy
  • Radiation oncology
  • Advanced imaging
  • Surgical oncology
  • Integrative oncology
  • Supportive care services

For added convenience, cancer care is also available at Dearborn Cancer Center and St. Elizabeth Ft. Thomas Hospital.

Nationally Recognized Expertise

Cancer care at St. Elizabeth is delivered by a team of specialists who focus on specific cancer types – from breast and lung cancer to colorectal, skin and more. These tumor-specific specialists stay current on the latest research, subtypes and evolving treatments.

Each case is reviewed through a multidisciplinary Tumor Board, ensuring multiple experts weigh in on every diagnosis. This collaborative approach is one reason St. Elizabeth is nationally recognized for excellence in cancer care and ranks in the 99th percentile for patient satisfaction.

Common Questions About Second Opinions

Will my doctor be offended?
No. Second opinions are standard in cancer care and often encouraged.

Do I need to switch my care to St. Elizabeth?
No. The second opinion is yours to use however you choose.

How long does it take?
Most appointments are scheduled within days of receiving medical records.

What do I need to bring?
Usually nothing – Nurse Navigators collect records and imaging on your behalf.

When You’re Ready, St. Elizabeth Is Here

If you’ve received a cancer diagnosis, you deserve clarity, confidence and access to every available option.To request a cancer second opinion, call (859) 301-4000 or visit St. Elizabeth’s Second Opinion page: https://www.stelizabeth.com/medical-services/cancer/second-opinion/?utm_source=LINK+NKY&utm_medium=digital+&utm_campaign=cc&utm_content=cancer_care