Nephrology Second Opinion

Nephrology Second Opinions: Supporting Kidney Health Decisions

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?

• Confirm and Validate: A second opinion might confirm the accuracy of the initial diagnosis or treatment plan, providing reassurance and validation.
• Peace of Mind: Know that you have explored another angle before making significant healthcare decisions.
• Offer Alternative Treatments: If there are alternative treatment options or approaches to explore, we aim to present them to you.
• Improved Treatment Plans: Where your diagnosis might be unclear, a second opinion might offer a more effective or tailored treatment plan.
• Risk Reduction: In situations where a surgery or invasive procedures are recommended, a second opinion might help mitigate the risk of unnecessary invasive procedure by confirming if it’s the most appropriate course of action.
• Accessibility: Online medical opinions provide access to expert advice and consultations regardless of geographical constraints, may reduce long waiting time for doctors and the need for in-person visits.
• Convenience: Flexible timing, when and where you need it.

See Nephrology Sample Report.