Health care is intimidating, and looking for more providers to weigh in on your health might seem like more hassle than it’s worth. But seeking out a second medical opinion can be the best thing for your health and confidence in the way forward. Sometimes, though, you might run into barriers in getting a second opinion.

Getting a virtual second opinion by The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic is quick and hassle-free. Most patients receive a report from one of Cleveland Clinic’s leading experts in less than two weeks without ever having to leave home.

The Shock of a New Diagnosis

Receiving a life-changing diagnosis can be overwhelming and frightening. You’ll probably feel scared or angry. You might not know where to turn or who to reach out to. You might even feel like you’re alone or that your future will be nothing like you planned. It’s completely normal to have these feelings. But it doesn’t mean you’re stuck without options.

Take a day to process your emotions. Talking with your family or close friends about your feelings can be helpful. You don’t have to give them details about your diagnosis if you don’t want to. You can also talk with your doctor about supportive services that can help. They may recommend talking to a counselor or joining a support group. Don’t be afraid to ask for help during this difficult time.

There Can Be Too Much Information

Health care is intimidating. There is a lot of information that you might not have any prior knowledge or education about. You might read or hear words that don’t make any sense, and when you search for them on the internet, they can cause stress or anxiety. It’s important to remember that not all information is reliable, and it might not be relevant to your specific situation.

Talk with your healthcare team and ask questions when you do. Is there a word you don’t know the meaning of? Ask. Medical information is hard to understand. Be clear that you need clear, easy-to-read information. You’ll still also be dealing with the emotions of a new diagnosis. Simple, clear information can help you process what’s going on.

You Won’t Be Offending Your Doctor

Being an advocate for your own health is important. It’s not advisable to simply rely on the words of only one doctor, especially if you’ve received a life-changing diagnosis. If you’re hesitant about seeking out a second opinion because you don’t want to offend your current physician, try approaching it from a different perspective.

Let them know that you want to make sure you fully understand all your options and want to ensure the best possible care for yourself. A good doctor will understand and support your decision to seek out additional opinions. They may even be able to recommend what type of specialist will be able to provide a different perspective on your diagnosis and treatment plan.

Place and Time Pressures

You might also face some barriers to getting a second opinion that make it physically challenging to see a new specialist.

• Appointment wait time – Specialists often have long waitlists, and you might not have the luxury of time to wait for an appointment.
• Location – If you live in a rural area, there may not be many specialists nearby, and you might have to travel significant distances for an in-person appointment.
• Personal responsibilities – Work or family commitments may make it difficult for you to take time off for appointments.
• Mobility – Getting around when you’re facing surgery or when you use assistive devices can be challenging, especially if the specialist is in a different city.

If any of these barriers apply to you, seeking out a virtual second opinion with The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic can help you overcome them. With just an internet connection and a computer or smartphone, you can connect with leading experts at Cleveland Clinic without ever leaving your home.

Register Online to Find Peace of Mind

It’s easier than you might think to get a second medical opinion. Simply register online with The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic, and you’ll be connected with a dedicated nurse manager who will guide you through the process. After your case is initiated, we’ll collect your records from your current provider and organize them for review by a Cleveland Clinic expert specialist. You’ll receive a detailed report—often in less than two weeks—giving you the information and confidence to make informed decisions about your health. Register online now to get started.