[Second opinion as expert consultation--general practitioner as referral source]

The relationship between family doctor and patient is usually one of mutual trust developed over many years. This is why a patient with cancer most likely first raise the question of a second opinion with him, in particular in a "palliative situation". The family doctor, however, can properly deal with this task only if he is included as a link in the network of communication and cooperation between those engaged in the treatment and care of cancer patients. Only then can the family doctor, as the closest and most trusted medical carer who is well acquainted with the patient's overall situation, help the patient to obtain a well-founded second opinion. In so doing they can also additional benefit the patient by sparing him many a fruitless odyssey, dashed false hopes and great disappointments.