Online second opinion frequently asked questions

Getting a second opinion can help you make the right health care choices, especially when you’re dealing with a chronic or serious condition. The questions and answers below may be helpful if you’re considering or want to request a second opinion.

How do online second opinions work?

The medical experts at Ohio State can analyze your individual diagnosis using an online process to minimize many second opinion delays. After we receive all required medical records, we typically deliver our written report (including diagnosis confirmation, treatment recommendations and next steps) in about one week. Getting an online second opinion does not obligate you to receive care at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center or the OSUCCC – James. We will not initiate the process until you give your consent and complete the required up-front payment of $800.

All you need to get started is to complete the online request forms. We will contact you after that for next steps.

How much does a second opinion cost?

Our online second opinion service costs $800. This includes:

• Partnership and ongoing communication with a case coordinator to guide you through the online second opinion process.
• Management of your medical record collection (the only thing you need to provide is consent and contact information to the record providers).
• A written second opinion report that includes:
  • Detailed review of your diagnosis (which may include confirmation of your original diagnosis or a refined or changed diagnosis).
  • Recommended treatment options, some available only at Ohio State or a few health care centers nationwide.
  • Suggested next steps for ongoing care.
  • If relevant to your diagnosis, additional research or resources.
• An opportunity to ask follow-up questions, discuss next steps and request additional services with your case coordinator.
  • This communication window is only open for the two weeks following delivery of your written report.
  • If there are any additional costs – such as medical testing that might be required or new services that you request – your case coordinator will explain and get your consent before any charges are billed.

Does health insurance or Medicare/Medicaid cover this online second opinion service?

Most insurances, including Medicare and Medicaid, do not cover online second opinions, which means our team cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier or provide a procedure (CPT) code for our service. You will pay out-of-pocket for an online second opinion. You can make this payment using your HSA account or a credit card, if you’d like.

Will my local doctor be offended if I get a second opinion?

Doctors welcome collaboration from other experts across the country, so there is no reason to feel bad about seeking a second opinion. Your local doctor will be included in the second opinion request and will receive a copy of your second opinion report, so they can help you decide next steps. A second opinion does not obligate you to receive treatment at Ohio State, and we can work with your local physician to plan your care going forward, whether that’s closer to home or here at Ohio State.

How do you select the physician assigned to my case?

You will be matched to an Ohio State expert who specializes in your specific diagnosis. They will work to understand your concerns before recommending what they consider to be the most advanced treatment options and best resources for your situation.

If I have questions or problems registering my account to request an online second opinion, whom should I contact?

Please call our Destination Medicine Program at 614-685-5422.

If I have questions after my online second opinion account is established, whom should I contact?

You can message your case coordinator directly in your online account once it’s active.

Can I schedule a telehealth or in-person visit with the same physician who writes my online second opinion?

If you want to meet with an Ohio State specialist after receiving your written report, your case coordinator can help you schedule a visit with an appropriate physician or advanced practice provider. This may not be with the same physician who wrote your report, but it will be with an expert who specializes in your specific medical condition.

After I pay the $800 to start the online second opinion process, will there be any additional charges?

The $800 is a one-time flat fee for your written second opinion report. However, if your case is complex and requires review by multiple specialists or a reevaluation from radiology or pathology, additional charges may apply. If you choose to pursue treatment at Ohio State following your second opinion, we will provide you with a cost estimate and work with your insurance to request authorization for any necessary services.

Have a question not listed here?

Contact Destination Medicine at destinationmedicine@osumc.edu or 614-685-5422.