The Value of a Second Look
Use of a virtual second opinion service is expected to see a major surge this year. According to recent forecasts, engagement may grow at a rate of 10 percent per year, from now until 2028.1 What’s driving this growth? Timing is one major factor. Since the onset of the pandemic, use of telemedicine has been rising steadily. Due to the heightened demand and a rise in telehealth utilization, virtual second opinions are becoming more relevant to employers and consumers than ever before.
When should patients seek a second opinion?
If patients are unclear about a diagnosis or trying to weigh multiple treatment options, obtaining a second opinion is often a good idea. This is especially true if they’ve received a serious, complicated or rare diagnosis or aren’t getting results from a current treatment.
Likewise, if a doctor is recommending surgery or other high-risk treatment, a patient will want to think about getting a second opinion before committing.
Doing so can reveal alternate, lower-cost suitable treatments. Additionally, patients may also learn about new or cutting-edge therapies, or simply receive peace of mind.
The value of second opinion services
But what does a second opinion service offer? A virtual second opinion connects employees with leading specialists who can offer insight into their condition or illness. The format is simple and easy to use, and not dependent on network restrictions. Since a service helps employees locate specialists across the country, the online format greatly improves access for patients. For employers, second opinions are useful in curbing costs associated with complicated or high-risk treatments.
Meritain Health® and 2nd.MD
Meritain Health is proud to partner with 2nd.MD*. The second opinion service from 2nd.MD connects eligible members with second opinions from nationally recognized, board-certified physicians representing over 120 specialties. Consults, usually lasting 30 minutes, can be easily set up by video or phone.
And the results are speaking for themselves. 2nd.MD clients have reported outcomes such as: 85 percent improved treatment plans, a 30-percent cancel rate for surgeries found unnecessary, and 98-percent member satisfaction rate.
If you’d like to learn more, contact your Meritain Health representative!
*Aetna Second Opinion powered by 2nd.MD. Aetna is the brand name used for products and services provided by one or more of the Aetna group of companies, including Aetna Life Insurance Company and its affiliates (Aetna).
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