Many patients are hesitant to seek second opinions when making decisions about their health, even when considering major medical procedures. This hesitation is sometimes based on a lack of familiarity with a relatively new physician, but even where a strong relationship has been developed between doctor and patient, the person being treated often perceives the interest in a second opinion as an affront to the doctor who has provided the first opinion. This tendency is rather unfortunate, given the potential benefits, either of further confirmation that a particular path represents the proper course, or of contrary perspectives which can be considered for more fully informed decisions.
Which of the following best represents the main point of the passage above?The passage says many patients hesitate to seek second opinions, often because they worry it may offend their doctor. But the author clearly views that hesitation as unfortunate because second opinions can either confirm the first recommendation or provide a useful alternative view. [b]The main point is that
patients should not hesitate to seek a second opinion, especially in important medical decisions.
(A) Patients should seek second opinions only in cases of questionable intent on the part of the physician.
This is too narrow and is not stated in the passage. The passage gives broader reasons for seeking second opinions.
(B) Some doctors consider the request for a second opinion offensive.
This is not the main point. The passage says patients often perceive it that way, not that doctors actually do.
(C) Doctors who tell patients not to seek second opinions are attempting to avoid competition with other physicians.
This is not discussed at all.
(D) Many patients are hesitant to seek second opinions when making decisions about their health.
This is stated, but it is not the main point. It is the problem the author introduces before giving the real point, which is that such hesitation is unfortunate.
(E) When considering major medical procedures, patients should not hesitate to seek a second opinion
This best captures the main point. The passage presents hesitation as unfortunate and explains why second opinions can be beneficial.
Answer: (E)