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. Petra J. Thomas, M.D., is a distinguished pulmonologist with extensive experience in
pulmonary and critical care medicine. She earned her B.A. from Brown University and her M.D.
from Temple University School of Medicine. Dr. Thomas completed her internship at Howard
University Hospital, followed by a residency in Internal Medicine at Washington Hospital Center,
and a fellowship in Pulmonary/Critical Care at George Washington University.
Board-certified in Pulmonary Diseases and Internal Medicine, Dr. Thomas has held various
roles, including as a solo practitioner at Nova Pulmonary Care and a pulmonary consultant for
the Department of Labor’s Black Lung Division. Her interests include ICU care, telemedicine,
and both inpatient and outpatient pulmonology. Dr. Thomas is an active member of the
American College of Chest Physicians and has a strong background in teaching and hospital
administration.