SECOND OPINION MEDICAL REPORTS

If you are worried that something is going wrong with your care then it can be difficult to know what to do. A second opinion report can provide you with the information that you require to move things forward. It can help reduce your anxiety whilst waiting for treatment or investigation but importantly windows of opportunity are not missed.

One step forward is Martha’s Rule which gives 24/7 access to critical care outreach if the relatives or staff are worried. The first stage will be available by 2025 but it will take many years to fully implement. It is not likely to help people who are not seriously ill or who are in the community.  

Private second opinions reports are of three basic types, the first is a full body MRI scan which acts as either a baseline or a way of ruling out any structural problems. The cost is about £1500 and can be obtained without a doctor’s referral.  The reports almost always find something so be prepared to have a repeat scan in 6 months to reassure that those changes are not a problem. 

The second type is after death and will be usually conducted under orders from the coroner. The postmortem MRI scan has advantages of not involving any disturbance with the body and can be rechecked if there is a later question. The undertakers are happy to arrange this service on request.   

The third type of second opinion report is a based upon a review of the medical records and usually an examination. The expert can make a visit at home or hospital and provide a detailed report that the family can use to negotiate care. If you are not sure whether a Second Opinion Medical Reports is necessary then you can contact an expert for free. Experts are used to providing guidance and helping you make sense of things.