Newly Diagnosed

Allan, there is still (and probably always will be) a bit of "the God Complex" in medicine. Many patients think that the doctor knows everything and is the only one competent to make decisions. They just want to lie back and let the doctor "cure" them. Then there are others of us who want to know EVERYTHING that is going on or could go on. Back in the "good old days" doctors were trained in the "God Complex" way of thinking.

It is a very personal decision...I have known MD's who bought this "Complex" deal themselves...AS PATIENTS! Knew one doctor who, when ill, didn't want to know ANYTHING about it...just let his doc make all the decisions.

Many patients feel insecure, and do not want to question their doctor because he/she might get mad at them...This threatens their sense of security.

That is why we work so hard to inform patients of their rights to second opinions.

Sara Anne

Wishing you well tomorrow. I didn't see a doctor the day of my preop, just the lab techs so I didn't get a chance to ask many questions. After your procedure, we can help with understanding the path report when you get it. Hoping for the best outcome after all the facts are in.

Hello... welcome to this site. It's a lot to take in when you first hear that you may have bladder cancer. After the numbness wears off, your head fills with questions and fear of the unknown. We are here to help with both those things as best we can for you.

A good place to consider for a second opinion is of course Duke. Your uro may have suggestions as well (mine sent me to Vanderbilt) but ultimately you are the decision maker about who you see.

You can read about Duke's Urology department here if you haven't already:

Duke Urology