Appointments and second opinions

Before a first visit

Having these ready lets the team review your case before you arrive, and often means a decision can be made at the first visit.

• The pathology report from any biopsy, and the name of the lab, in case the slides need to be requested
• Imaging (CT, PET, MRI, ultrasound) on a disc or available through your hospital's portal, along with the radiology reports
• Notes from the doctors you have already seen
• A list of current medications and allergies
• Your insurance card and a photo ID

Second opinions

Second opinions are welcome and common. There is usually time for one: treatment decisions for early head and neck cancer are rarely so urgent that a week or two of review changes the outcome. Many patients come with a recommended plan from another center and want to know whether surgery, radiation, or a reduced-intensity approach fits their case.

For referring physicians

Call the program office at 617-573-3669 or refer through Mass General Brigham. Urgent new-cancer referrals are seen quickly; please note the diagnosis when you call so the visit can be scheduled with the right team.

Insurance

Mass Eye and Ear accepts most major insurance plans. The current list is on the Mass General Brigham profile under Accepted Insurance.