A written second opinion from a Chinese oncologist without travelling: process, documents and limits

A remote second opinion is valuable not for overturning a plan but for answering three questions clearly: is the staging and diagnosis accurate, is the current plan a mainstream option for this stage, and if treatment in China is considered, which hospital and technique fit best.

What to submit

• Pathology report with immunohistochemistry and relevant molecular tests (EGFR, ALK, PD-L1, MSI);
• The most recent imaging reports (CT/MRI/PET), with original images if available;
• A complete treatment history: regimens, cycles, response assessment and adverse events;
• Current medication, recent labs (blood count, liver and kidney function) and comorbidities.

Process and turnaround

Once records are complete, a coordinator translates and structures them for a senior specialist in the relevant tumour type. The written opinion usually returns within 24–48 hours and covers the assessment of diagnosis and staging, a review of the current plan, alternative options and feasibility of treatment in China, plus an initial estimate of cost and duration. The first opinion is free.

What a remote opinion cannot replace

• It cannot replace an in-person examination and cannot be used to prescribe;
• It cannot replace pathology review — where the original diagnosis is disputed, slides must be re-read;
• It is not a promise of outcome; individual variation always applies.