Los Angeles-based Cedars-Sinai has expanded its Virtual Second Opinions program to patients in 39 states.
More than 150 Cedars-Sinai specialists participate in the program, giving patients access to specialized expertise across more than 600 conditions.
After completing a questionnaire and speaking with a nurse coordinator, patients are matched with a specialist who reviews their records and prepares a written report typically within five days. An optional 30-minute virtual session is also available.
In recent surveys, 94% of participants reported satisfaction with the program, according to a March 10 news release.
Access requires a one-time fee, which is not covered by insurance, though some FSA and HSA plans may reimburse the cost.
The expansion comes as growing specialty shortages limit access to care and as patients increasingly turn to online health resources to take a more active role in their care. In oncology alone, up to one-third of patients seek a second opinion, though many hesitate because of concerns about treatment delays or geographic barriers, according to The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship.
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