When you’re diagnosed with a rare, complex medical condition, where do you turn? You might not know anything about what’s happening with your body, and there may not be a specialist who knows what you’re living with for miles. Getting a second opinion from an expert physician can give you the peace of mind and confidence you need to move forward. Thankfully, you can get a virtual second opinion on nearly any condition without having to travel across the country or even leave home.

Why Get a Second Opinion?

If your condition is rare or complex, chances are, your general physician doesn’t have as much experience treating it as they do with more common medical issues. You can find an expert specialist who has very specific experience in diagnosing and treating your condition. You’ve likely gone to a specialist before, but a subspecialist or advanced subspecialist will have even more focused knowledge of your specific condition. A second opinion from someone who has more knowledge of what you’re living with can help confirm or change your diagnosis and recommend the right type of treatment.

The Process of Obtaining a Second Opinion

You’ll only need to take a few steps to get a second opinion.

• Talk to your original provider – Have an open, honest conversation with your provider. When they initially tell you about your newly diagnosed condition, they may recommend seeking a second opinion from a different specialist. Even if they don’t, having them in the loop can keep your entire healthcare team informed, which can allow you to get the right type of care moving forward.
• Look for a specialist – Your rare, complex condition will require specific knowledge. Find a specialist who has expertise in treating your specific diagnosis, not just the general field that deals with it. Ask for recommendations from your current healthcare team, look online, or join support groups where you can connect with others who have similar conditions and ask for their recommendations.
• Be open to all your options – Advanced subspecialists can’t be everywhere all at once, and there are fewer of them than general practitioners or specialists. Consider looking for an online service that can match you with a subspecialist who can provide an expert second opinion without having to leave your home.

Having confidence in your health care can allow you to focus on your treatment instead of second-guessing your diagnosis.

Is There a Subspecialist for My Condition?

There’s most likely a subspecialist who studies exactly what you’re living with. Medicine is a broad, deep field, and new research, treatment methods, and technologies are always emerging. Even if you think your diagnosis is incredibly rare, there’s probably a medical professional who specializes in it. If you can’t find one nearby, there are virtual options available that can connect you with an expert subspecialist from anywhere in the country.

Many subspecialists also work at leading medical institutions, which means you’ll have access to the latest research and treatment options for your condition. This can give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re receiving the best possible care for your specific diagnosis.

Connect with Experts with The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic has 3,500 expert specialists in more than 550 advanced subspecialties—and you can access them with The Clinic. The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic is a virtual second opinion service that connects you with world-renowned specialists from the comfort of your own home. You’ll receive an expert review of your case with a second opinion about your diagnosis and treatment recommendations that are tailored to your life. You also have the option to meet with a Cleveland Clinic specialist online for a consultation and to discuss your treatment plan in detail.

Register online now and find the peace of mind you need to move forward.