The most common type of diagnostic “quality control” is a patient-initiated second opinion1. In one study, 38% of patients sought a second opinion because they had doubts about the diagnosis or treatment and 19% sought a second opinion because they were dissatisfied with the level of communication2.
Studies show that second opinions typically confirm the original diagnosis or treatment regimen. In one study, between 10% to 62% of second opinions yielded a major change in the diagnosis, treatment, or prognosis3. In another study, 84% mentioned that they were satisfied with their second opinion, 77% felt health improvement, and 56% indicated that there was a difference between the diagnosis or treatment from the first and second opinion4.
If you want to enhance the accuracy of your diagnosis or recommend course of treatment, a second opinion can help.
What can we do for you?
Dr. Manfred S. Rothstein, MD, FAAD, FACP, is a distinguished dermatologist. He completed his
B.A. in Natural Sciences at Johns Hopkins University in 1970 and earned his M.D. from Duke
University School of Medicine in 1974. Dr. Rothstein trained in pediatrics at the Medical College
of Virginia and completed his dermatology residency at Duke University, where he served as
Chief Resident. Certified by the American Board of Dermatology, he has also held various
academic appointments at Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill. Dr. Rothstein is a member of numerous
professional organizations, including the American Academy of Dermatology and the American
College of Physicians. His interests include dermatologic education, historical perspectives in
dermatology, and ostomy skin care