How and when to get a second opinion.

Get a second opinion if/when:

  1. You’re unsure about a diagnosis or treatment recommended by your doctor
  2. You’re given a serious diagnosis
  3. Surgery is recommended as your treatment
  4. Long-term or risky treatment plan is recommended
  5. If you aren’t seeing improvements from your current treatment

How to get a second opinion in person:

  1. Find 3-5 In-Network Doctors in your area
  2. Check patient reviews to make sure you’re comfortable with their experience
  3. Schedule your appointment
  4. Request your medical history to transfer to the 2nd opinion doctor
  5. Be prepared for your appointment and ready to ask your doctor questions until you feel comfortable with your diagnosis and treatment plan

Pro: Meeting with an in-network provider may be paid for by your insurance company depending on your plan.

Con: Where you live may impact the quality or the number of specialists you can access.

How to get a second opinion online:

  1. Choose an Expert Second Opinion organization that provides online medical second opinion consultations
  2. Search for your condition to see if it is among the diagnoses they work with and how much it will cost for your consultation
  3. Register for your online medical second opinion
  4. Request your second opinion by completing the process of providing your patient information, medical questionnaires, required materials, eligibility verification, and final submission
  5. Prepare for your consultation by knowing what questions to ask your doctor
  6. Most patients will need their doctor to complete a Request For Consultation Form

Pro: Board certified staff physicians from the Cleveland Clinic will review your diagnosis, treatment options and alternatives, answer submitted questions and provide information on clinical trials.

Con: Insurance companies will not pay for MyConsult 2nd opinions, however depending on your medical plan, it may be reimbursable with HRA or HSA funds.