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Virtual Second Opinions
An easy and fast way to help you make a more informed, confident decision about your care. All from the comfort of home. Without the cost or hassle of travel. Virtual Second Opinions by Cleveland Clinic is delivered by The Clinic, a joint venture between Cleveland Clinic and Amwell, a global leader in telehealth.
Why Choose Virtual Second Opinions by Cleveland Clinic?
Virtual second opinions provide something invaluable: peace of mindBut what’s a virtual second opinion? A second opinion is a way to get more information about a condition, treatment option or procedure from an expert — and when it’s virtual, you can do it all without leaving home. No travel time, record-collecting, or hunting down the best specialists needed. With virtual second opinions, you’ll be more informed and equipped to move forward.
72% of expert second opinions uncover recommended diagnosis or treatment plan change.When Should I Consider a Second Opinion?
A second opinion can be a good option when you’re:
- Diagnosed with a serious condition.
- Told you need to have surgery or a procedure.
- Considering a possibly risky treatment.
- Experiencing a condition is changing and possibly getting worse.
- Confused about or struggling with a medical challenge.
How Much do Virtual Second Opinions by Cleveland Clinic Cost?
Your virtual second opinion will cost $1,850. There are real cost and time savings involved with virtual second opinions. A convenient option, you don’t need to pay for travel, take time off work or make hotel arrangements far from home.
How do Virtual Second Opinions by Cleveland Clinic Work?
1. Live intake with a care manager:
After you create an account through our secure portal, you’ll have a live video visit with your nurse care manager (U.S. only). This is the beginning of your virtual second opinion process.
2. Records collection:
The next step is all about getting the information we need to help you. With your consent, we do all the work of collecting your medical records (U.S. only).
3. Expert matching and expedited access:
We’ll match you with a Cleveland Clinic consulting physician who specializes in your condition. They’ll review your case. We make this possible weeks sooner than it might be in-person.
4. Second opinion delivery:
After your case is reviewed, a detailed written report will be delivered.
FAQs
Does health insurance cover this service?
No, insurance does not typically cover this concierge second opinion service. The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic team cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier or provide a procedure (CPT) code for our service.
However, if your employer offers this service as part of your benefits package, the service may be of no or lower cost to you. Please check with your employer.
You may also be able to pay with your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). If you are not sure if you have an FSA or HSA, please contact your employer or insurance provider.
Do you accept Medicare?
No. The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic is a separate entity from Cleveland Clinic and does not participate in Medicare.
If you are a Medicare participant, you can obtain a virtual second opinion as a self-paid service (not reimbursed by Medicare).
Can I get a virtual second opinion if I don’t live in the U.S.?
Absolutely. We welcome international patients and we’re happy to provide you with an expert second opinion. The all-inclusive cost for a virtual second opinion for patients outside of the U.S. is $2,500 (USD).
Is this program available everywhere in the U.S.?
Virtual second opinions are available for people in most states. However, if you live in one of the following states, virtual second opinions is not an option:
- Maine.
- Rhode Island.
- South Carolina.
- South Dakota.
- Tennessee.
While we are working hard to make our services available everywhere, if you currently live in one of these states, you may seek an in-person second opinion at one of Cleveland Clinic’s locations.
If you are not located in the above-mentioned states, you can get a virtual second opinion now.