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Howard J. Luks, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

Howard J. Luks, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon Sports Medicine Specialist

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Second Opinions : What’s Wrong, What’s Necessary, and What Will it Cost?

Howard J. Luks, MD Updated September 17, 2021

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It was a brutally humid day … it was not the best day for our AC to kick off.

  • Opinion 1. “I should be able to get a new unit up and running for you in a day… for about $2400”
  • Opinion 2. “Not sure what’s wrong .. but the unit is 8 years old so I would replace it”
  • Opinion 3. “Here’s your problem — an $8 capacitor”

Choices of Entering Healthcare and Social Media Intersection

This was a busy month at work.  Many second opinions.  The part of my job I seem to enjoy most.

  • I agreed with only 10% of prior opinions regarding the “need” for surgery.  Luckily.. being an elective surgeon, very few people “need” surgery.

Now… I’m not asking you to take the leap and assume that I am all knowing and always correct— but most of these folks were doing just fine with regards to their quality of life and simply didn’t “need”  surgery.

  • A few wondered if I would be willing to perform their surgery.  An HSA was mentioned, so the issue of  cost arose.  Good for them! We came in more than 70% less than prior quotes.  Why? Do I believe my time is worth less than others? No.  I simply think I have a more realistic view of what my time is worth, and I want people to be able to afford the treatment.    Would you pay $40,000 dollars cash for a knee replacement that takes me an hour to perform? I wouldn’t either… but you would be amazed to know how many people do. Just because something costs more does NOT mean you are getting a better level of service or result.

Second opinions matter … in HVAC and in healthcare.  What’s wrong, what’s necessary, and what will it cost are important issues to discuss— and comprehend.

Even if you trust your first opinion … you never know what might be revealed.

 

 

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Categories: Sports Medicine Tags: second opinions

Disclaimer:  this information is for your education and should not be considered medical advice regarding diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Some links on this page may be affiliate links. Read the full disclaimer.
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Howard J. Luks, MD

Howard J. Luks, MD is an orthopedic surgeon & sports medicine specialist. An expert in shoulder, knee, and other sports injuries, he is widely known as one of the country’s best orthopedic surgeons.

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Howard J. Luks, MD is an orthopedic surgeon & sports medicine specialist. An expert in shoulder, knee, and other sports injuries, he is widely known as one of the country’s best orthopedic surgeons.

Book Appointment · About · Contact

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Like what you’re reading?

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Howard J Luks, MD

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