Finding out that you have a serious illness, like cancer, or having a major physical injury is, as many people can attest to, an event in your life that can bring you to a standstill. Add to that the fact that you now have to make decisions about your medical treatment that will have a significant impact on the rest of your life. Considering the complex nature of today’s diagnostic testing and medical treatments, how can you be confident you’re making the most informed decision?

 

That’s where the value of a second medical opinion service comes in, such as the service offered by WorldCareSM. As the practice of medicine becomes more highly specialized, it can be difficult for any one physician to have all the latest information relating to the diagnosis and treatment of serious and complex diseases. According to the Institute of Medicine, it takes an average of 17 years for a new treatment to be incorporated into routine care. Through WorldCare’s service, patients and their physicians have immediate access to leading edge medical expertise from world renowned research and academic hospitals.

 

The American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network both recommend

second opinions for everyone who receives a new diagnosis of cancer. In fact, an independent study

of WorldCare members1 using their second medical opinion service found that:

 

• Approximately 15% of the second opinions indicated a change in diagnosis.

• 70% of the second opinions recommended revisions to the treatment plan.

 

The Second Medical Opinion Service,  provides independent second medical

opinions from top nationally-ranked hospitals in the United States. The information they provide is

tailored to each individual’s specific situation and even includes a follow-up consultation. Best of all, no travel is necessary; the second opinion comes directly to the patient and his/her physician in just days.

 

Highlights of the Second Medical Opinion Service

 

• The service is designed to enhance the local physician-patient relationship, by ensuring that

the primary physician has direct access to the consulting physician, to confirm a diagnosis and

develop the most effective treatment.

• Second opinions are typically delivered, via email, fax or mail, to the member and his/her attending

physician within four business days once the complete medical record is received and pathology,

if any, is reviewed