”When the electrical cardioversion didn't
work, my cardiologist suggested I go to the Cleveland Clinic.”

- Calvin Bowen

”MyConsult worked real well for me. The MyConsult physician reported back to me
and explained everything and sent
information. I'd recommend MyConsult…”

- Calvin Bowen

”The MyConsult service was not only
thorough, but it opened the door for me to
find the kind of help I wanted…”

- Michael Palmer

”I thought if I could do this online versus traveling to Ohio, it would save me a big trip.”

- William Scott

Heart and Vascular Institute sees over
290,000 patient visits a year.

Cleveland Clinic is ranked in the top 5 of US hospital by US News and World Report.

Cleveland Clinic's Cardiac Transplant
program is one of the largest in the United States.

In 2007, mechanical circulatory support
devices were implanted into 23 patients.

Today, patients are becoming more informed medical consumers. They want to have more of a say in decisions about their health and their medical treatment. Seeking a second opinion is a major part of that decision-making process, allowing you to take more responsibility for your health care.

We have found, for example, that nearly one-half of the new patients who come to the Cleveland Clinic come here for a second opinion.

Why should you get a second opinion?
Second opinions are commonly sought to confirm a diagnosis. "At least 25 percent of all second opinions do not agree with the first opinion diagnostically", according to the book Good Operations - Bad Operations by Charles B. Inlander. As medical treatments have become more sophisticated and as techniques and procedures change, it becomes difficult for any one physician to be aware of all the latest information. People are, therefore, getting second opinions to seek additional information, investigate newer treatments and compare treatment results.

Second opinions can offer you reassurance and peace of mind that the course of treatment prescribed by your physician is the best available. Second opinions may enlighten you and your physician to new approaches or treatments, thereby empowering you to explore all options before coming to a decision. And second opinions may provide a safeguard against unnecessary procedures. By getting more information and asking the right questions, you will improve your chances of making informed decisions about your treatments.

• When should you seek a second opinion?
• •  If you are faced with a serious illness that does not require emergency surgery.
• •  If you are uncertain about the diagnosis or course of treatment suggested to you.
• •  If the treatment recommended is invasive.
• •  If you have already been undergoing treatment, and it is not producing the results
     your physician had expected.

Some insurance companies require a second opinion before certain surgeries. Check your payor's policy regarding second opinions.