When faced with a diagnosis, a treatment plan, or a recommended surgery, it's normal to feel uncertain. Is this really the best option? Are there alternatives? What should I expect?

Our Second Medical Opinion service, provided by Teladoc Health and backed by a global network of over 50,000 medical experts, gives you access to an independent, specialist review of your condition - at no additional cost as part of your health plan.

You will receive an external, and therefore unbiased, opinion from a medical expert in the relevant field. It is also the perfect occasion to ask any questions that may be on your mind.

Not sure where to start? Below, we've listed the types of situations where an SMO can help, along with examples of questions you may want to ask.

You Have Been Recommended to Have Surgery

Going through surgery, whether minor or major, can be stressful. With our Second Medical Opinion service, a specialist can confirm whether your prescribed surgery is the best option for your condition, or recommend alternative, less invasive treatments where appropriate.

Examples of questions you may want to ask:

• Can you tell me more about the procedure? What will happen during the surgery?

• How long is the surgery? What kind of anaesthesia will be used?

• How soon should I have the surgery? What will happen if I delay it?

• Do I have any non-surgical alternatives? Are there less invasive options?

• Are there any risks associated with the surgery?

• Are there any complications I should be aware of, either immediate or long-term?

• How soon will I know if the procedure has been successful?

• What are the next steps if the surgery doesn't work?

• Will I be in pain after the surgery? What medication can I take to manage it?

• How long will I need to recover?

• How soon can I leave the hospital? How soon can I resume normal activities such as eating, exercising, or returning to work?

• What kind of follow-up care will I need after I am discharged?

You Have Been Recommended to Go Through Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can significantly improve your recovery and overall health, but it's natural to have questions about the process and whether it's the most suitable approach for your condition. A Second Medical Opinion can confirm whether physical therapy is the right course of action or if other treatment options should be considered.

Examples of questions you may want to ask:

• Is physical therapy the most effective treatment for my condition?

• How many sessions will I need, and how frequently?

• What specific goals should I aim to achieve with physical therapy?

• Are there any risks or side effects I should be aware of?

• How long will it take before I notice improvements?

• Will physical therapy resolve my condition or manage the symptoms?

• What techniques or exercises will be used during sessions?

• Are there exercises I can do at home to support my recovery between sessions?

• Could physical therapy help me avoid surgery or other invasive treatments?

• How will my progress be tracked, and how will I know if the therapy is working?

• What should I do if I experience pain or discomfort during therapy?

• What are the alternatives if physical therapy doesn't deliver the expected results?

You Are Taking Medication or Have Been Prescribed a New Treatment

Medications play a critical role in treating many conditions, but it's important to understand their purpose, potential side effects, and effectiveness. A Second Medical Opinion can help you determine whether the prescribed medication is appropriate for your condition or if alternative treatments should be explored.

Examples of questions you may want to ask:

• What is the purpose of this medication, and how will it help my condition?

• Are there any side effects I should be aware of? How likely are they to occur?

• Are there any long-term risks associated with taking this medication?

• How should I take the medication? Should it be taken with food or on an empty stomach?

• How long will I need to take the medication?

• Are there alternative medications or treatments that could be equally effective?

• What should I do if I miss a dose?

• Will this medication interact with any other medications or supplements I'm currently taking?

• Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make while on this medication?

• What signs should I look out for to know if the medication is working?

• What should I do if I experience side effects or an allergic reaction?

• Can I safely stop taking the medication if I feel better, or do I need to complete the full course?

You Have Received a New Diagnosis and Want to Understand Your Options

Receiving a new diagnosis, especially for a serious condition, can be overwhelming. A Second Medical Opinion can help you fully understand your diagnosis, confirm its accuracy, and explore all available treatment paths before making any decisions.

Examples of questions you may want to ask:

• Can you confirm my diagnosis based on my medical records and test results?

• Are there any additional tests I should take to confirm or refine the diagnosis?

• What is the typical progression of this condition?

• What are all the treatment options available to me?

• What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option?

• Is there a recommended treatment timeline, or can I take time to decide?

• Will I need to make any lifestyle changes as part of my treatment?

• Are there any clinical trials or newer treatments I should consider?

• What is the expected outcome with treatment? And without?

• Will I need ongoing monitoring or follow-up care?

• How might this condition affect my daily life, work, or ability to travel?

• Are there any support resources or specialists I should connect with?

How to Access Your Second Medical Opinion

Requesting a Second Medical Opinion is simple.

1. Log in to your Easy Claim app or member portal and submit your request for a Second Medical Opinion in a few clicks.

2. A Case Manager will call you back and collect information on your medical record.

3. Your medical case will be reviewed by a clinical committee and assigned to the most experienced medical expert based on your condition.

4. The medical expert will study your case. They may ask your Case Manager to contact you or your attending physician if further information is needed.

5. You will receive a fully detailed medical report within 10 working days.