Effective October 1, 2026, all GLP-1 inhibitor medications covered under the Alaska Electrical Health and Welfare Fund will require prior authorization through CVS Caremark. Learn more.

When Two Heads Are Better Than One

When Two Heads Are Better Than One

Get a second opinion and avoid unnecessary medical procedures.

In 2020, about one unnecessary medical procedure was performed every four minutes, according to a Lown Institute study that looked at hospital procedures covered by Medicare that year. These procedures included coronary stents for stable heart disease, spinal fusion for
low-back pain, and hysterectomy for benign disease. Not only may these procedures offer little to no benefit, but they may also often do more harm than good.

The takeaway? Get a second opinion.

A second opinion means that you choose to see another doctor after you’ve received an initial diagnosis or treatment plan for a medical condition. The second doctor reviews your medical history and gives you their view on your diagnosis or treatment plan. A second opinion can help you learn about other treatment options, understand the risks of each, and feel more confident about your health care decisions.

Your Benefits Cover a Second Opinion

Teladoc gives you access to expert medical opinions from leading specialists at no cost to you. When you’re unsure about a diagnosis, surgery, or treatment options, Teladoc connects you with a team of doctors who collaboratively review your health records and develop a clear diagnosis and treatment plan that’s right for you. To get started, call (800) TELADOC (835-2362), go to Teladoc.com/MedicalExperts, or download the Teladoc app.

Transcarent Surgery Care (formerly BridgeHealth) gives non-Medicare eligible participants access to major surgery performed at one of the nation’s top-ranked hospitals (all at no cost to you). Your care begins with a review by a top national expert to confirm that you have the right diagnosis and treatment plan. To learn more, call Transcarent at (855) 423-1299, email surgerycare@transcarent. com, or register for an account on transcarent.com/surgery-care.

Any qualified doctor or specialist may provide a second opinion. Your Health Plan covers a second opinion for non-emergency procedures; a third opinion is also covered, if the first two opinions do not agree.

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