When to use Included Health’s “Treatment Decision Support” and “Expert Medical Opinion”
Did you know that Included Health offers treatment decision support, as well as expert medical opinions, for all eligible employees? If so, do you know the difference? Or when to use them? Here is some information to help you make the most of these helpful services.
Treatment decision support
Imagine you (or a family member) suddenly get sick or injured. A trip to the ER can be expensive. Maybe you have a healthcare question, or questions about symptoms you’re experiencing, and you’re not sure if you should wait for an appointment with your regular healthcare provider or seek an Urgent Care.Instead, chat with an Included Health nurse first to learn the next best steps for your care, at no cost. Treatment Decision Support is available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
The Included Health team can:
- Provide treatment advice on symptoms, side effects, and more.
- Connect you with one of their doctors over the phone.
- Set up an in-person visit for you or direct you to immediate care.
And more.
Expert Medical Opinion
If you or a loved one has received a difficult medical diagnosis, you could be feeling confused and overwhelmed. A second opinion from another doctor or specialist could help in many ways.
A second opinion is when you ask another doctor to review your diagnosis or treatment plan. The doctor or specialist will review your medical history, including any relevant imaging and test results, and share their opinion of the diagnosis or treatment plan.
For many people, a second opinion provides peace of mind and reduces uncertainty. The second opinion can also improve the accuracy of the diagnosis and effectiveness of the treatment plan.
In addition to peace of mind, there are many reasons you should consider getting a second opinion:
- You want to confirm a diagnosis
- Your condition is complicated or life-threatening
- Your treatment plan is confusing
- You want to look into new treatment plans, like clinical trials
- You are not responding to your current treatment plan
- Your doctor does not specialize in your condition
- A serious medical problem can be overwhelming. Getting a second opinion can help remove some of that uncertainty for both you and your circle of supporters.
Second opinions are valuable for many diagnoses. Examples include:
- Cancer
- Musculoskeletal (i.e., problems with bones or ligaments, like your back)
- Rheumatology (i.e., arthritis, tendon issues, and muscle injuries)
- Dermatology (i.e., issues with the skin)
- Neurology (i.e., disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system)
- Gastroenterology (i.e., issues with esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver)
- Endocrinology (i.e., diagnosis like diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2, thyroid disorders, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism)
This is not a complete list. If you have received a medical diagnosis or treatment plan and think you’re interested in a second opinion, Included Health can help.
To use Included Health:
- Activate your account. Visit includedhealth.com/newscorp or call 1-833-267-8820.
- Activate your account.
- Download the Included Health app.