The fetal care second opinion process starts with a referral. You can refer yourself by using our online contact form or by calling us. Your OB/GYN or MFM specialist can also refer you for a second opinion.
When you reach out to us for a second opinion, we will connect you with one of our five fetal care nurse coordinators. These nurses specialize in fetal conditions and will be able to provide more detailed answers about your diagnosis.
Your nurse coordinator will also walk you through the process of gathering your medical records, diagnosis information, and previous lab and imaging results. You will need to send all of this information to the Fetal Care Center before your second opinion appointment. If your doctor refers you for the second opinion, they can forward your records to us.
After we receive all of your records, our team of experts will review your information and schedule a time for you to come in. We want to avoid having you make additional trips to Cincinnati Children’s, so if we need extra scans or tests done, we will schedule them for the same day as your appointment or the day before. Most women have a one- or two-day evaluation. If you need to travel a long distance for a two-day evaluation, our team can help you find a place to stay near the hospital.
When you come in, your visit will begin with any imaging the team needs (such as an ultrasound or MRI). Once all of your testing is complete, you will meet with your nurse coordinator. If your care plan requires genetic testing, you will also meet with one of our genetic counselors. A social worker will sit with you to help you with local resources, financial assistance and places to stay if needed.
Following your clinic appointment, you will meet with the fetal care doctors. Because we take a team approach to every case, you will meet with a group of specialists during your second opinion appointment. This group will be able to explain your specific diagnosis. Each specialist will be able to weigh in with their expertise to make sure you get the best possible treatment plan.
After your appointment, we will work closely with your primary OB/GYN or MFM specialist, so you don’t have to worry about managing any doctor-to-doctor communications. Some women worry about how their original doctor may feel about them seeking a second opinion. But rest assured that it is a normal process for these diagnoses.\
