Consultations (second opinions)

Getting a second opinion about your heart condition and treatment plan is important. A consultation with another heart specialist can help you understand your options and feel more confident about your decisions.

This can make a vital difference when you are considering procedures or treatments. It’s also essential to ask if the first doctor and facility have extensive experience with the cardiac procedure being suggested—and if those results have been good. Getting a second opinion from a heart center with more expertise may be crucial for your successful outcome. 

A second opinion will often provide you with the latest information on the best approaches to your care, from recent research findings. You may also learn about advanced methods for solving your condition with minimally invasive procedures instead of open surgery.

Some patients hesitate to get a second opinion, worried that if they consult another physician, the first doctor will be insulted. In reality, physicians recognize that second opinions benefit their patients, especially for major conditions such as heart disease. What’s more, your insurer may require that you get a second opinion consultation before undergoing certain cardiac procedures.

At the Pilla Heart Center, we see many patients for second opinions on all types of cardiovascular diagnoses, conditions, treatments, and procedures.

For expertise on second opinion consultations, contact the specialists at Abington’s Pilla Heart Center, including the Porter Institute for Valvular Heart Disease, Heart Rhythm Center, Comprehensive Heart Failure Program, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Blank Vascular Center.