The medical field is constantly evolving and advancing. Advanced diagnostic technologies have made medical diagnosis easier and quicker. Even though the medical field is advancing, the old practice of second opinions is still highly recommended, and so health insurance with second medical opinion still has its importance.
In specific medical conditions, like critical illnesses, a second opinion can be highly beneficial and also recommended by medical experts. It helps in confirming the medical condition so your medical professional can head towards the exact required treatment. Not just practical but a second opinion also gives the mental satisfaction by ensuring that the treatment is going in the right direction. In this article, we will discuss why you must invest in a health insurance with second medical opinion. So, let’s get started.
What is the Second Medical Opinion?
The second medical opinion is primarily a second consultation/diagnosis for a certain ailment. For instance, a disease like cancer may require a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis. Patients usually opt for a second opinion to be sure of the diagnosis before proceeding with the treatment line.
In some cases, the diagnosis of certain ailments may not be correct due to various technical reasons. In such cases, having a second medical opinion can be the best-case scenario. Since diagnosis can be expensive for certain diseases, having second medical opinion insurance can save you from paying hefty expenses.
Reasons Why You Should Invest in Medical Second Opinion Insurance
Second medical opinion service is not a sign of distrust of your doctor, as many believe. Such a notion may make you hesitant to go for a second opinion. However, you must understand that a second opinion takes you towards an informed consultation and treatment. Some of the top reasons why you must go for a second medical opinion service include:
In Case of Critical Illnesses
For critical illnesses a second opinion can be highly recommended. Since life-threatening diseases involve critical analysis and careful diagnosis, going for a second opinion will only provide more clarity on the matter. In some cases, the patient may have borderline results like something between Stage 1 and Stage 2 of Cancer. So, in such cases, a second medical opinion service can be quite beneficial and also a necessity.
For Persistent Ailment
In some cases, the ongoing treatment may not be sufficient to cure the ailment. Patients must know that they need not settle with the condition. Going for a second medical opinion online or offline can be the best option. The second opinion gives your doctor a fresh diagnosis to treat the ailment from a different angle. You may end up receiving a breakthrough treatment that can help improve your overall health.
A Rare Medical Condition
For rare medical conditions like genetic problems, a second opinion can be a wise decision. Some rare conditions may involve complicated procedures, and there may not be enough specialists to handle them. So, a second opinion can help confirm the case for further treatment.
A Risky Treatment Procedure
When going for a risky medical procedure like open heart surgery or cancer surgery, a second medical opinion service can be an ideal choice. Having double confirmation of the case gives you the mental peace that the treatment is going in the right direction. Also, since some treatments can be risky, having 100% clarity is quintessential before proceeding.
Your Gut Instinct
If your instinct asks you to go for a second opinion, go for it. Listening to your gut feeling is always a good decision. Even if everything seems right and the doctors are sure about your report, going for a second medical opinion service is not a bad idea.
Lack of Understanding
You may also go for a second medical opinion if you didn’t get enough clarity in the first diagnosis. If your doctor was not able to clarify all your questions and concerns, you may switch your doctor and go for a second opinion. It is never a wrong choice to prioritise your health above anything.
Costly Treatment
If you are going to begin a costly treatment, seeking a second medical opinion can be a wise move. You may end up finding ways to treat the medical condition without going for surgery. However, make sure to never compromise with your health and go with the easy lane down.
Does Health Insurance Cover Second Opinions for Surgery?
After reading the aforementioned details, you may wonder if health insurance plans cover medical second opinion services. The answer is yes. However, the coverage may vary from one insurance plan to another. So, if you are willing to invest in health insurance second medical opinion, you must confirm the same with your health insurance provider. Care Health Insurance understands the need for a comprehensive health plan, and so, second medical opinion services are covered under Care health plans. Read on to know more about the scope of coverage here.
Care Health Insurance Second Opinion Cover
With Care Health Insurance, you can go for a second medical opinion without any hassle. Our Classic plan is a comprehensive health insurance with sum insured options available as 5L, 7L, 10L and 15L. Zone-based premium, No Claim Bonus, global coverage, Air Ambulance and Care shield, Assisted Reproductive Treatment etc. are some of its unique benefits along with medical second opinion. Given below is the list of the diseases for which you can go for a second medical opinion:
- Cancer
- Benign Brain Tumor
- Coma
- Stroke
- Lung failure end-stage
- Myocardial infarction
- Coronary artery bypass graft
- Paralysis
- Serious burns
- Renal failure end-stage
- Heart valve replacement
- Total blindness
- Motor neuron disease
- Major organ transplant
- Multiple sclerosis
Medical Second Opinion: International (Add-On)
An international medical second opinion is primarily an additional cover with our Care Plus Youth Plan. For this add-on, you have to pay a small amount as additional premium. Along with your base health insurance plan, you may purchase this add-on cover.
With an international second opinion health plan, you can have your case re-evaluated globally without having to travel internationally. So, anyone travelling abroad seeking medical treatment or willing to have international second opinion can purchase this add-on with their base cover. You can connect with our experts to get clarity on the plan benefits and other terms and conditions
Summing Up
Health insurance second medical opinion is a feature of most of the health insurance plans at Care Health Insurance. Having a comprehensive health plan that provides a second medical opinion can be a huge relief. You no longer have to think twice before going for a second medical opinion. Irrespective of the expensive diagnosis and consultation process, you can opt for it without any hassle.
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.