Given the history of prostate cancer in his family, Michael had been monitoring his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels over the past 10 years and even had a few biopsies done, which had come back negative.

But after his annual visit with his urologist, Michael found out that his PSA levels were high, which raised some concern. The urologist had Michael undergo an MRI on his prostate.

The results came back and the urologist said it looked like there was a specific area where there was a cancer. “It didn’t sound good,” Michael said. A biopsy further revealed that Michael had an aggressive form of prostate cancer.

Michael underwent a bone scan to determine whether the cancer had spread, and after the results came back negative, Michael and his urologist discussed his options.

“They included hormone therapy, radiation, or removing the prostate itself,” he said.

Michael was apprehensive about proceeding with radiation due to potential complications and the chance of it being less effective should he need radiation in the future. His urologist booked him for surgery to remove his prostate, but before proceeding Michael felt he needed a second opinion to help confirm what his next steps should be.

Michael had learned about Best Doctors from a nurse through his insurer. With his surgery date booked, he reached out to Best Doctors and it wasn’t long before he heard back. Michael said what impressed him most was the speed with which Best Doctors collected all his test results, including the MRI and bone scan results, and then delivered the report a few days before his surgery date.

“The Best Doctors report was comprehensive and the good news was that they concurred with my urologist’s recommendation, his prognosis, and the course of action,” said Michael, adding that Best Doctors kept him informed throughout the process. “That made me feel pretty good.”

Michael also spoke on the phone with a Best Doctors expert who walked him through the report before his surgery date. Michael went ahead with the surgery to remove his prostate. He said he’s been recovering well since undergoing the operation a few months ago and will soon have his PSA levels checked. He mentioned that he has already recommended Best Doctors to his coworkers, friends and family.

A few of them [Michael’s local doctors] didn’t know about it [Best Doctors] and they’ve used the expert report. Getting confirmation from a panel of experts in the field versus off the Internet, you put a lot more comfort in that.”