What is the term for seeking an evaluation or medical opinion from another practitioner?

The term for seeking an evaluation or medical opinion from another practitioner is "Second Opinion." This practice is essential in healthcare as it allows patients to obtain additional insights or confirmation regarding their diagnosis and treatment options. Patients often seek a second opinion when they doubt a medical diagnosis or when they are presented with complex treatment options, ensuring they make well-informed decisions about their health.

Obtaining a second opinion can empower patients and enhance their understanding of their medical condition, potentially leading to better outcomes. It also promotes a collaborative environment among healthcare providers, where diverse perspectives on medical issues can lead to improved patient care.

While terms such as collaborative care, consultation, and peer review relate to interactions within the medical community, they refer to different processes. Collaborative care generally involves a team approach for managing a patient's treatment, consultation can describe a situation where a specialist is called in for advice, and peer review pertains to the evaluation of the work or performance of healthcare professionals by their peers. Each of these terms serves specific functions in the healthcare setting, but none specifically captures the concept of seeking an additional medical opinion as accurately as the term "Second Opinion."