Second Medical Opinion through 2nd.MD expanding to employer groups May 1
March 2, 2023
What we’re doing and why
A patient’s decision about their care can be a big, life-changing decision. 2nd.MD through Accolade is a leader in virtual medical decision-making, connecting people facing high-impact medical scenarios with top specialists through video consultations, to help them make informed health care decisions.
Currently, 2nd.MD is offered as a service in the Commercial Group market as part of PriorityGPS and Virtual Care Partners for select employer groups through our partnership with Accolade. Beginning May 1, 2023, we’re expanding this program to most employers. Our goal in expanding this program is to:
- Help members feel confident and educated in their treatment and care plan recommended by their physician.
- Give members the option for re-evaluations for specific high-cost services such as surgeries and procedures for musculoskeletal, cardiac, women’s health and gastrointestinal issues.
- Give members the resources to discuss potential alternative treatment options with their local physician.
- Improve the time to obtain a second opinion from weeks to days
How it works
Members who choose to seek a second medical opinion through 2nd.MD will receive a 30-minute live consultation with a nurse and specialist physician to review their medical history. The care team will provide the member a post-consult summary with their recommendations. Members can choose to share the second opinion summary with their treating provider and determine next steps.
What providers need to know
It’s important for patients to feel confident in their care and empowered to share the decision-making process with their doctor. 2nd.MD provides a second medical opinion, and members will decide how to proceed with their care and/or share their summary report with their physician. 2nd.MD acts as an extension of the members care and refers the member back to their treating physician for follow-up.
How we’re communicating to members
Members who qualify for a consultation from 2nd.MD will receive outbound communications from Accolade starting in May. Depending on the member’s plan, they may proactively reach out to 2nd.MD for a second medical opinion. The member summary provides information for providers to request a peer-to-peer conversation with the 2nd MD provider, if desired.