getting a second opinion
Seeking a second medical opinion (SMO) is standard practice, and patients should not hesitate to ask for one. In fact, some healthcare providers urge patients to obtain an SMO, especially when surgery is recommended. Many healthcare providers themselves seek second opinions from colleagues as they review a patient’s case.
when to seek an SMO
Becoming well educated about infertility issues will help a patient to decide whether an SMO is needed.
When a patient suspects a diagnostic error, has been unsuccessful after repeated treatments, or otherwise lacks confidence in a healthcare provider’s advice, an SMO should be sought. However, even when a patient trusts a healthcare provider, an SMO can be helpful.
Since there are many causes of infertility, there are numerous areas of specialization. When the primary healthcare provider does not specialize in the specific area affecting a patient, obtaining the opinion of a sub-specialist should be considered.
preparing for an SMO
The healthcare provider providing an SMO should have as much, or greater, expertise as the patient’s primary healthcare provider. In choosing a physician to provide an SMO, a patient may ask their primary healthcare provider for a recommendation, or seek referrals from other sources.
To maximize the benefits of an SMO, a patient should review and fully understand the conclusions and recommendations of the primary healthcare provider before meeting with the second physician. When calling to schedule the SMO, patients should ask what pre-visit documents are required. The physician providing the SMO will likely want to review lab results, X-rays and other medical records before seeing the patient. Some physicians also may request a letter from the referring healthcare provider.
what to do with an SMO
The SMO will usually agree with the primary healthcare provider’s opinion. When that is not the case, the physician providing the SMO may write to the primary healthcare provider explaining the difference in opinion. The patient must then decide whether to remain with the primary healthcare provider, change to the physician providing the SMO, or seek yet another medical opinion.
paying for an SMO
Many health insurance plans will pay for a second opinion to the extent they cover infertility treatment and diagnosis. Patients should check their individual insurance plans to learn if, and to what extent, an SMO will be covered, as well as the need for any prerequisites to obtaining such coverage (for example, a letter from the referring physician). Many health insurance plans will pay for a second opinion to the extent they cover infertility treatment and diagnosis.