From painting our house to repairing our cars, nowadays comparative quoting is almost a norm when it comes to most items we purchase. But when it comes to our health, we seem to be satisfied to simply accept the diagnosis or advice we’re given by doctors or medical professionals the first time around. Given the high incidents of medical misdiagnoses reported by Mediguide, (18% of all original diagnoses are incorrect), why wouldn’t we get a second opinion? Especially in the case of critical illnesses when there is so much at stake. According to findings by specialised life insurers, FMI, a second opinion often isn’t sought after because of the additional costs incurred and the long-standing trust of family doctors.
“A second opinion can make all the difference in putting a patient on the right road to recovery and we are committed to helping our clients every step of the way,” said Brad Toerien, CEO of FMI.
“We know that when facing a serious medical condition you can feel completely overwhelmed, especially at a time when you need to make key decisions about your condition. At this crucial stage, you and your doctor want to be certain that you’re considering every available option – no matter the cost,” Toerien added.
When Durban-based breast cancer fighter Mandy Cremer was first diagnosed with cancer, her husband’s first thoughts immediately went to the next step.
“We didn’t know what to do, what kind of treatment she needed or how much it was going to cost,” Mike Cremer reflects.
According to Toerien, it was these insights from real friends and family that had suffered serious illnesses, like cancer, that inspired the launch of FMI’s Critical Illness solution. Part of FMI’s 4-part Critical Illness solution is an expert Medical Second opinion. “In an age of unprecedented worldwide research, this is more difficult than ever before. That’s why we have partnered with Mediguide to bring the Medical Second Opinion service to all future FMI Individual policyholders. This service provides an independent review of your diagnosis and treatment plan from a choice of more than 107 leading medical centres around the world. In a first for the South African market, this will be included at no extra charge to our Critical Illness cover,” says Toerien.
A Harvard study found that doctors performing a medical second opinion enhanced the original treatment programme up to 90% of the time. The second opinion also gives the patient peace of mind about their condition and treatment, while also educating them on their options thus equipping them to make better decisions about their health. Besides being free, Medical Second Opinion is also simple, user-friendly and the turnaround time is within 10 days.