A Second Opinion

Feel confident with the decisions you’re making.

Want an expert opinion from the comfort of home? An Online Second Opinion is an option at Bridger Orthopedic.

The experts at Bridger Orthopedic recognize that patients travel many hours to receive the best care when necessary. Multiple consultations, hours of driving each way, and the expense of time and money associated with that can make getting an expert opinion difficult. We now offer virtual second opinions where our fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists can review your case and offer their expert opinion and recommendations in a format that is convenient and cost-effective for you.

Why should you consider a second opinion? 

Our specialists work with patients to find solutions for some of the most complicated orthopedic cases in the Rocky Mountain region. Providing appropriate treatment for patients suffering from injuries or chronic orthopedic conditions may help prevent surgical intervention, lessen recovery time, or provide better patient outcomes. Having a comprehensive understanding of your treatment options is imperative. Our experts will review your case, your local surgeon’s recommendations, and either offer reassurance of the plan or further recommendations that may be better suited for your particular problem.

Is it normal to ask for a second opinion? 

In today’s world, patients are inundated with available information. We at Bridger Orthopedic feel it is important to provide people across the region with the most comprehensive understanding of their unique pathology with treatment options that may be available to them, and access to experts in the area of your problem. In most cases, patients are offered peace of mind that solidifies the previous surgeon’s opinion and treatment plan. It may also offer additional insight based on our specialists’ opinions, including the ability to ask more informed questions or explore alternative treatments that may involve non-surgical options or an alternative surgical approach.

Most surgeons welcome second opinions to allow their patients the ability to feel confident in the procedure and practitioner they are choosing. Medicine is an ever-changing field, and there could be innovative technologies that your provider might not offer. We feel it’s important for patients to have access to the most up-to-date information and options available to them.

What conditions can I request a second opinion for? 

Our fellowship-trained, board-certified specialists are offering second opinions for Sports Medicine (shoulder, hip, knee), Upper Extremity (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand), Joint Replacement and Reconstruction (shoulder, hip, knee), Foot and Ankle, and Spine problems. We can also explore the role of biological and regenerative procedures when appropriate.

How can I request a second opinion and what will I receive?

Reach out to us by filling out the form below. We will have one of our patient care coordinators contact you to review the process of obtaining your medical records. After reviewing your imaging, clinic notes, and surgical recommendations from your original provider, our specialists will schedule a 10–15-minute video conference with you to discuss the findings face-to-face. You’ll also receive a summary letter that includes a full explanation of the findings and recommendations from our experts. The summary will be uploaded to our medical records for reference.

 

What is the cost of seeking a second opinion, and will my insurance cover the cost? 

The fee for image and records review, video conference, and summary of recommendations is $450, payable by credit card only. Unfortunately, this service is normally not covered by standard health insurance policies, although some medical savings accounts may allow patients to utilize funds to seek this type of service.

Can I still schedule a formal consultation with a Bridger Orthopedic specialist in-person after my review?

Yes. If you’re interested in additional information or clarification of the second opinion offered, you can arrange a formal consultation with our surgeon. This office visit would be coordinated as a traditional visit set up through your insurance, similar to a standard new patient office visit.