An analysis of nonconfirmation rates. Experiences of a surgical second opinion program

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A review was conducted of the 1st 12 mo. experience with a voluntary 2nd opinion surgery consultation program. The program covers approximately 950,000 persons, employees of the New York city [USA], retirees and their dependents. On a simple yes or no basis, the program''s surgical nonconfirmation rate was 25%. More detailed analysis of consultants'' narrative suggestions for patient care showed that a firm rejection or surgical intervention occurred in only 8% of the cases reviewed. Nonconfirmation rates were unsatisfactory measures of program success in preventing potentially unnecessary surgery. Data from 2nd surgical opinion programs should not be used to estimate the prevalence of unnecessary surgery in a community. The key benefit of such programs may be to facilitate and to encourage patient-physician communication.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: