Pediatric Ophthalmology Second Opinions

Pediatric ophthalmologists and optometrists at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia are available to you or your physician to provide remote or on-site second opinions or consultations. We work with families and pediatric specialists from all over the country and around the world to provide second opinions and consultations so you can make informed decisions.

Why and when to get a second opinion from a pediatric ophthalmologist

When your child receives a new diagnosis of an eye or vision problem — whether it's a common condition or rare disease — a second opinion or consultation, whether remote or in person, can give you information to help make an educated decision about treatment. Seeking a second opinion or consultation is very common. Families seek second opinions and consultations for many reasons, including:

Feeling uncomfortable with or needing confirmation of a diagnosis

When your child receives a new diagnosis you likely hope to make a treatment plan as soon as possible. You may find that a second opinion or consultation, whether remote or in person, helps clear up doubts you may have or provides you with the confirmation you need to proceed with treatment quickly. Second opinions and consultation reports can be used to aid you and your treating physician with treatment decisions and planning.

Needing help with a decision to start, stop, or change a treatment plan

It is not uncommon for parents to seek second opinions or consultations before their child receives treatment, so you can feel confident in the path you are on. Another common time to get a second opinion or consultation is when a change in treatment has been recommended, or you are seeking additional treatment for a returning or recurrent eye or vision issue. Consultation reports will answer your questions.

Seeking the opinion of an ophthalmologist with experience treating your child's condition

While your child’s ophthalmologist, optometrist or orthoptist may have experience treating other children with your child's condition, they may wish to obtain a second opinion from a pediatric ophthalmologist who is highly experienced with a particular diagnosis, especially when the disease is very rare, or your child's care is complex. CHOP specialists may be aware of new treatment methods or clinical trials and can share that information during a second opinion or consultation, whether remote or in-person.