Second opinion stories

Two years ago I was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes. Being an enthusiastic sportsman, that was tough to swallow. Especially because no doctor or food expert seemed to be able to solve the heavy stomach cramps that made it impossible for me to continue endurance races.

Then I got Royal Doctors to send my case to their specialist. He told me about a continuous glucose monitoring system, allowing me to monitor my blood sugar much better and being a competitive athlete all the same. Rob - 24 years - sportsman

I'm preparing for a two week hike in Mongolia next month. Not at all what I was thinking six weeks ago when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and my doctor suggested heavy radiation therapy. The treatment could save me, but would definitely mean the end of my professional career. And my sex life.

I gave Royal Doctors a call. And I got a second opinion from Doctor Mottrie Alex, a Belgian based prostate specialist. He suggested robotic surgery and invited me over to discuss the details. Together with my radiation therapist, we decided on the new therapy in Brussels. I got surgery the next day.

Before Royal Doctors no one had suggested robotic surgery for my cancer. Danny - 49 years - Lawyer

I've had hip problems for a long time. Not a very serious issue: providing me with an artificial hip is a fairly standard procedure. But that would mean the end of my career as a pilot. And that was no real option for me.

Royal Doctors sent my file to Dr. Koen De Smet, a hip specialist in Ghent. He told me about a less invasive procedure: revising my hip and freeing me from pain. It wouldn’t involve a hip replacement and I would be able to keep my job. It took me seconds to decide. Francis - 55 years - Pilot

The worst part of getting diagnosed with a serious illness? It's the insecurity. You’re thinking: now what? Is this the right treatment? Is this the best doctor? Is this really the only option? When my doctor told me about my serious heart condition, that’s exactly how I felt.

Luckily I can rely on Royal Doctors. After a simple phone call, my case manager gathered all my medical files and sent them to a specialist. He confirmed the diagnosis, but suggested a different treatment. I consulted with my doctor, who then got in touch with the Royal Doctors specialist. They exchanged knowledge and made sure I got the treatment that was best for me. In weeks I was back at work.” Ruben - 34 years - Sales Manager