Seeking a second opinion is normal — and valuable
In oncology, getting a second opinion is standard, widely accepted practice — not a sign of distrust toward your doctor. Radiotherapy involves technical decisions: whether it is indicated, which technique to use, which areas to treat, and what alternatives exist. An independent review by another specialist can confirm the proposed plan or surface additional options to discuss with your treating team. In many cases the second opinion agrees with the first — and that confirmation alone brings real peace of mind before starting treatment.
When is a second opinion helpful?
- Radiotherapy was recommended and you want to confirm the indication before starting.
- You want to review a treatment plan already proposed: technique, target areas, schedule.
- You were told radiotherapy is not an option and want to verify that.
- You have questions about the alternatives available for your case.
- Your treatment has not progressed as expected and you want a fresh look.
- You simply want to understand your diagnosis better before deciding.
What to prepare
To make the review as useful as possible, gather what you have available:
- Your biopsy or pathology report (the single most important document).
- Recent imaging studies with their reports: PET-CT, CT, MRI, bone scan.
- The proposed radiotherapy plan, if you already have one, or your tumor board summary.
- A summary of prior treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy.
- Your medical records or discharge summaries, if available.
Do not worry if something is missing — at first contact, Dr. Baquero tells you what is essential for your case.
How the process works
You can send your studies and reports by WhatsApp — clear photos or PDF files — or bring them to a consultation. Dr. Baquero reviews your case and explains, in plain language, what your diagnosis means, whether radiotherapy is indicated, which techniques and alternatives could be considered, and which questions are worth taking back to your treating team. The consultation can be virtual or in person, depending on your location and case, and care is available in Spanish and English.
A second opinion does not mean changing doctors
This deserves to be said clearly: requesting a second opinion does not oblige you to change doctors or hospitals. Many patients return to their original team with more information and more confidence in the plan they already had. If the review suggests adjustments or additional options, you decide how to discuss them with your treating physician — the final decision is always made with your team. And if you prefer to continue your care with Dr. Baquero, he will explain how to do so.
Cases from across Colombia and abroad
Dr. Baquero practices at several institutions in Barranquilla and Santa Marta and reviews cases from all of Colombia and from patients abroad, remotely whenever distance requires it. He sees private-pay patients and works with most health insurance plans; coverage and the type of consultation are confirmed when scheduling. If, after the second opinion, you need treatment in Colombia's Caribbean region, he can help coordinate the full circuit.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need for a second opinion?
Ideally your biopsy or pathology report, recent imaging with reports (PET-CT, CT or MRI), the proposed radiotherapy plan if you have one, and a summary of prior treatments. If anything is missing, the doctor tells you what is essential.
Is the second opinion in person or virtual?
Either. Many patients from other cities or countries start by sending their studies via WhatsApp and do the consultation virtually; those in the region can be seen in person in Barranquilla or Santa Marta.
How do I send my studies by WhatsApp?
You can send clear photos of the reports or PDF files. If your images are on a CD or an online platform, the doctor advises the best way to share them when you schedule.
Does a second opinion replace my oncologist?
No. It is a complement that gives you clarity; the final decision is always made with your treating team. Many patients return to their original doctor with more confidence in their plan.
Will my doctor be upset that I asked for another opinion?
Second opinions are standard practice in oncology and most physicians welcome them. You have every right to understand your treatment before starting it.
How long does the process take?
It depends on the complexity of your case and how complete your records are. When you schedule, the doctor gives you an expected timeline; urgent cases are prioritized.
Do you review cases from outside Colombia?
Yes. Dr. Baquero reviews cases from across Colombia and abroad, remotely or in person, and care is available in Spanish and English.
Do you take insurance, or private-pay only?
Dr. Baquero sees private-pay patients and works with most health insurance plans. Coverage for this type of consultation under your plan is confirmed when you schedule.
Ready for an assessment?
Dr. Baquero will personally review your case. Care in Barranquilla · Santa Marta.
The information on this page is educational and does not replace an individual medical assessment.