Request a second opinion from the Herma Heart Institute
A congenital heart defect diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience – with hundreds of questions that may feel impossible to answer.
A second opinion from our doctors can give another perspective from a world-class heart center. Whether it confirms the original diagnosis or offers new information or treatment options, second opinions can give you added confidence and peace of mind.
Have questions about second opinions or the Herma Heart Institute?
Visit the below sections to help you make a more informed choice about your child’s care.
Reasons to consider the Herma Heart Institute
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Superior outcomes for complex heart surgery
We consistently report some of the best outcomes for even the most complex types of heart disease, and we continue to be among the highest volume congenital heart surgery programs in the nation.* Research shows that top-ranked programs that have higher volumes tend to have higher success rates. Understanding surgical outcomes data can be complex. When you request a second opinion from the Herma Heart Institute, you’ll also instantly receive the Guided Questions Tool, a booklet designed to help parents ask 17 questions of their child’s care team. The tool was designed by a national parent advocacy group, and the Herma Heart Institute proactively provides answers to every question. *Based on reporting data from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons
A commitment that goes beyond the doctor's office
With our decades of clinical expertise and research, we know that our heart families need support that extends beyond the hospital. That’s why we invest in programs that help children thrive and get them back to being kids sooner.
- Developmental Follow-Up: We were the first pediatric heart program in the country to offer routine development follow-up care for patients. Our team of developmental professionals work closely with families to monitor the child’s development and maximize quality of life. Today, it is a national standard of care at heart centers.
- Steppin’ It Up: Over the course of the yearlong program, kids develop skills they need to safely participate in physical activities, improve self-confidence and address any anxieties connected to their heart condition. Steppin’ It Up is led by experts in cardiology, exercise physiology, psychology, and physical and occupational therapy. It is at no charge to families.
- Educational Achievement Partnership Program (EAPP): To ensure our patients have access to the school resources they need to reach their full potential, we developed the EAPP to serve children in kindergarten through college. Our specialists assess the patient’s school needs and serve as a connection between the hospital, family, school and community resources. These services are free to families as a standard part of care.
A commitment that goes beyond the doctor's office
At the Herma Heart Institute, we are committed to serving heart families. After you have submitted a request, you can rest assured that a member of our program will contact you within two business days. During this call, our team member will collect any relevant information that will help our physicians get back to you with a second opinion as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions about second opinions
Who can request a second opinion?
When can I request a second opinion?
Do I need to have anything prepared before requesting a second opinion?
Since all health records are obtained directly from your primary or referring care team, it is not required for you to provide those documents.
Is there a charge for a second opinion?
Will further testing (echocardiograms, ultrasounds, etc.) be required for the second opinion?
Sometimes we need updated tests or more clear images. If we do require more tests or images to deliver our opinion, we will connect with you to discuss the next steps needed to coordinate these tests at your local hospital, or to conduct these tests at our hospital (if preferred).
Will my primary cardiologist be offended that I’m requesting a second opinion?
Ultimately, it is your right to understand the specifics of your case and your options for treatment and management. We hope that a second opinion helps you feel more confident and empowered in your care decisions.