OpinionMD
OpinionMD
OpinionMD
OpinionMD
SPECIALIST MEDICAL REVIEW

A Second Opinion
Can Bring Clarity

When you have questions about a diagnosis, test result or treatment plan, an independent medical second opinion can help you better understand your options. OpinionMD connects eligible patients with physicians in cardiology, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics and nephrology for a detailed review of existing medical records.

Get My Second Opinion Learn How It Works

Questions About Your
Diagnosis or Treatment Plan?

OpinionMD helps patients access timely, evidence-informed second opinions without unnecessary travel or long waits. A specialist reviews the information you provide and prepares a clear written opinion to help you discuss next steps with your primary care provider or treating specialist.

View Core Specialties

Second Opinions from Our Specialist Network

Cardiology

Specialist review of heart-related diagnoses, cardiac test results, rhythm concerns, cardiovascular risk and treatment plans.

Internal Medicine

Comprehensive review of complex symptoms, chronic conditions, abnormal bloodwork, medication plans and diagnoses involving multiple body systems.

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Specialist review of pregnancy-related concerns, reproductive health, menstrual conditions, fertility, menopause, gynecological diagnoses and treatment plans.

Pediatrics

Specialist review of a child’s growth, development, behaviour, learning, recurring illness, asthma, allergies and current treatment plan.

Nephrology

Specialist review of kidney function, chronic kidney disease, urine abnormalities, electrolyte concerns, dialysis planning and kidney-related treatment plans.

How It Works

Simple, Secure, and Stress-Free

Start My Second Opinion

Start your case from wherever you are in the world. Get started by submitting your information and uploading your records. These may include: clinical summaries, prior diagnoses, blood test results, previous imaging reports (for a radiology second opinion), and any other documentation that describes your current medical condition.

We assign your case to our healthcare provider with the most relevant experience who will conduct an in-depth review of your diagnosis and medical files. The goal of your care team is to quickly confirm your diagnosis and devise a proposed treatment plan or recommend an alternative treatment plan.

Once all your information is received and reviewed, our healthcare provider will prepare clear, written recommendations you can trust.

Have additional concerns? We offer follow-up consultations so you feel confident moving forward.

When is a Second
Opinion Helpful?

When a tough health care decision is met with you or a loved one, you may have a hard time knowing what to do. It is common to feel confused. Making decisions can be difficult as you navigate the healthcare system, especially when you need to choose between several treatment options.

Uncertainty About a Diagnosis

If you're unsure or unclear about your diagnosis and want reassurance or confirmation.

Serious or Complex
Treatment Options

If the treatment plan involves major decisions, such as surgery or long-term therapies, and you want to explore all available options.

Limited Improvement

If your current treatment isn't improving your condition or if you feel your concerns aren’t being fully addressed.

Different Perspectives

If your healthcare provider recommends a course of treatment that feels uncomfortable or doesn't align with your expectations, a second opinion can offer new insights.

Chronic or Rare Conditions

If you have a rare or complex condition, seeking another expert’s opinion can help you understand all possible treatment options.

Doubts About the
Recommended Approach

If you’re uncertain about the necessity or urgency of the recommended treatment, getting a second opinion can provide peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should consider a second opinion if you feel uncertain about your diagnosis, treatment plan, or if you want confirmation or alternative options. It’s also helpful if the recommended treatment is serious, complex, or involves significant risks.

Yes, second opinions are typically covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) as long as the consultation is medically necessary. If you are referred to a specialist by your healthcare provider for a second opinion, it will usually be covered under OHIP. However, if you seek a second opinion independently without a referral, it’s important to confirm with the healthcare provider whether the consultation will be covered. In some cases, there may be additional fees if the second opinion is not deemed medically necessary or if it's not referred by a healthcard provider. Always check with your healthcare provider and your insurance provider to ensure coverage.

A second opinion is a normal part of taking charge of your healthcare, and most healthcare providers understand that patients may want reassurance. If you’re concerned about the reaction, it’s always best to communicate openly with your current healthcare provider about your reasons for seeking another opinion.

It’s possible. A second opinion can confirm the original diagnosis or suggest a different treatment approach. Sometimes, another healthcare provider may offer additional treatment options or a different perspective that could be beneficial.

Yes, it’s important to provide the second healthcare provider with all relevant information, including your original diagnosis, treatment plans, test results, and any other relevant medical history. This allows them to make an informed assessment.

Our current specialist network includes physicians in cardiology, internal medicine, obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics and nephrology. Availability depends on the medical concern, the records provided and whether the case is appropriate for remote record review.

Please submit your relevant medical records, prior assessments, diagnosis, laboratory results, imaging reports, medication list and treatment plan. Complete records help the specialist understand your history and provide a meaningful review.

No. OpinionMD provides an independent review to support your understanding and decision-making. Your primary care provider or treating specialist remains responsible for coordinating and implementing your ongoing care.

OpinionMD second opinions are based on existing medical records, previous assessments, test results and a confirmed or suspected diagnosis from another healthcare provider. Depending on the concern, additional investigations, an in-person assessment or another specialist may be required.

OpinionMD does not replace a primary care provider or treating specialist. Patients should share the report with their healthcare team and should not delay, discontinue or change treatment unless advised by their treating provider. OpinionMD does not provide all medical services, subspecialty care, or advanced diagnostic or procedural treatments. Our services are not intended for emergency or urgent medical conditions. Depending on the nature and complexity of your condition, additional investigations or involvement of other healthcare professionals may be required.

We offer second opinions in cardiology, internal medicine, obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics and nephrology. Requests are subject to clinical appropriateness, complete records and specialist availability. Some concerns require in person assessment, testing, procedural care or another specialty. Timelines begin after a case is accepted and all required information is received. Please note that completion and turnaround times may vary depending on each patient's individual case because additional testing, record review, or specialist input may be required.

As part of your second opinion, our providers may recommend:

  • Referral to a medical or surgical specialist
  • Consultation with internal medicine or allied health practitioners
  • Further diagnostic testing not available on site
  • Ongoing management by your primary care provider or treating specialist

This service is designed to support informed decision-making and patient understanding. It is most effective when used alongside an ongoing relationship with a primary healthcare provider who can coordinate and implement care. We encourage patients to share their second-opinion recommendations with their primary care provider or treating specialist to ensure continuity, coordination, and safe follow-up care. Patients should not delay or discontinue medical treatment while awaiting or following a second opinion.

If you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, severe symptoms, or a life-threatening emergency, do not use this service. Please call 911 immediately or proceed to the nearest emergency department or Hospital.