Consulting physician’s evaluation and assessment of a patient’s condition to assist in determining whether a proposed elective surgical procedure recommended by the first physician is necessary. Some insurance plans mandate a second opinion before the surgery is done, and if not performed, reimbursement may be reduced or denied. A voluntary program informs the patient that a second opinion will be reimbursed by the plan. Some plans have a list of surgical procedures that require a second opinion. Also called second surgical opinion (SSO) .

Consultation with a second physician about a proposed elective operative procedure after surgery has been recommended by a first physician.

Special fund that assumes all or part of the liability for benefits provided to a worker because of the combined effect of a work-related impairment and a preexisting condition; also known as subsequent injury fund (SIF) .

Second in order of time, place, or importance such as that seen during the course of another disease or condition.

Medical services provided by medical specialists who generally do not have first contact with patients (e.g., cardiologists, urologists, dermatologists). In managed care plans, the patient is seen by the primary care physician and then may be referred to secondary and/or tertiary providers as needed.

Medical situation that exists with the primary diagnosis and does not affect the treatment or results of the primary diagnosis.