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View Winners → Ask Christina: Where Do I Go for a Second Opinion?
Arcadia Weekly Oct 16, 2014
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By NerdWallet Health health finance expert Christina LaMontagne
Question:
After repeated injuries to my knee, I’ve been told I need surgery. While I want nothing more than to be active and pain-free, I’d like to get a second opinion to make sure there isn’t a less-invasive and effective non-surgical option available. But where do I start when seeking a second opinion?
Answer:
All surgeries come with risks, and though knee surgeries are some of the most common orthopedic procedures in the country, you are completely justified in seeking a second opinion.
A recent study published in BMJ Quality and Safety found that diagnostic errors affect at least 1 out of every 20 U.S. adults. It stands to reason that if the diagnosis is wrong, the recommended treatment likely is too. Talking with another physician could save you considerable recovery time and potentially costly medical bills.
Assuming the doctor who recommended surgery has been treating you for some time, start by telling her you’d like a second opinion. Despite what many people think, doctors aren’t normally offended by their patients seeking outside opinions and may even welcome the feedback. Also, because this physician knows your history and has your records, telling her you’ll be consulting with someone else helps ensure all of your information is shared with the second doctor.
Your current doctor should be able to refer you to a few specialists for your second opinion, as most physicians are familiar with colleagues in the same geographical area. However, if you want to see someone else, that is fine too. Many people find referrals from family and friends who have had similar medical concerns to be trustworthy. In that case, simply tell your doctor whom you will visit so your records can be sent before your appointment.
Once you’ve determined whom you’ll be going to, consider your insurance coverage. Insurance companies often cover second opinions because they know an unnecessary surgery will cost them more in the long run, though they may require you to get that referral from your primary physician. Review your policy or call the company beforehand to be sure that the appointment will be covered, and make sure the provider you choose is in-network.
Finally, if your insurance won’t cover a second opinion, or if it will only cover part of the costs, you need to consider how important it is to talk with another doctor. Ultimately, if the surgery isn’t necessary, the cost of consulting with another physician could be far lower than the costs associated with a knee operation. In either case, coping with outstanding medical bills could present an entirely new problem that could be mitigated with the help of a medical bill advocate.
NerdWallet Health helps patients reduce their medical bills—get started at health.nerdwallet.com. Have a question for Christina? Submit it to AskChristina@nerdwallet.com.
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