Second Opinions for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology

At Children’s Hospital Colorado’s Digestive Health Institute, we see more, treat more and heal more kids with digestive health conditions than any other hospital in the Rocky Mountain region. In fact, we’re the #1 pediatric gastroenterology and gastrointestinal (GI) surgery program in the nation as ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Our pediatric gastroenterologists and hepatologists help kids and teens with the full spectrum of GI problems. Here, we routinely diagnose and treat pediatric digestive conditions ranging from the most common to the very rare. Whether your family is looking for help addressing a known diagnosis or is still looking for answers, our experts can provide an in-person second opinion that will give you peace of mind and help ensure your child receives the best care available.

What is a second opinion?

A second opinion allows our nationally renowned specialists to provide their expert assessment of your child’s diagnosis or treatment plan. After collecting your child’s health history in an initial phone call, we’ll schedule an in-person appointment with one of our doctors. The doctor will review your child’s medical records, examine them in person and provide you with a thorough assessment of your child’s condition, including their recommendations for treatment.

Why you should get a second opinion for your child

Because medical knowledge and treatments are advancing every day, it can be particularly helpful to seek guidance from more than one doctor before proceeding with treatment. This is especially true when the diagnosis is rare or complex — or when the treatment could be life changing.

You might want to receive a second opinion about your child’s condition for several reasons. These include:

• Determining a diagnosis
• Confirming a diagnosis
• Discussing options for treatment
• Understanding why symptoms persist despite treatment
• Comparing the results of different treatment plans
• Finding and evaluating new or advanced therapies
• Considering opportunities to join clinical trials

A second opinion from a pediatric gastroenterologist or hepatologist is especially helpful if you’re considering multiple treatment options. It may also eliminate the need for additional invasive testing, procedures or surgery for your child. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about treatment that will help your child thrive.

Why request a second opinion from Children’s Colorado?

Our Digestive Health Institute is nationally recognized for our care. Here, we provide high quality and comprehensive digestive care from board-certified experts in esophageal, gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic and nutritional disorders in children. We’ll work with you and your child’s primary care doctor or pediatrician to find answers and recommend treatments that will improve your child’s medical care and quality of life.

Our experts are leading the field in developing treatments and cures for some of the most serious pediatric digestive conditions, from liver failure to chronic pancreatitis. We see patients from across Colorado, the Rocky Mountain region, the U.S. and even internationally. And we’re committed to providing child- and family-centered care with support from child life specialists, amenities and spaces that make care easier on kids.

When should I ask for a second opinion?

You may want to seek a second opinion before your child begins treatment so you know all their options and feel good about your choice. A second opinion can also be helpful if your child has undergone treatment but continues to experience symptoms.

If your child has a rare or complex condition — like eosinophilic esophagitis, ulcerative colitis or chronic liver disease — our experts can help ensure you feel prepared and satisfied that you have learned about all the potential options for your child’s care. A second opinion may be especially important before any invasive procedure or surgery.

What to expect from a second opinion at the Digestive Health Institute

• First, use the link below to schedule an initial phone call with our Digestive Health Institute via MyChart. This initial call will last for approximately 30 minutes and is free of charge.
• During the call, one of our friendly team members will collect some basic information about your child. We’ll also ask a series of questions to help us choose which program(s) and provider(s) we recommend for your in-person visit.
• If you determine you’d like to proceed with an in-person appointment, we’ll help coordinate the details for getting medical records, insurance or self-pay options ahead of your visit. We’ll also help you schedule your in-person appointment for a time that’s convenient for you.
  • If your child needs any procedures or tests as part of their evaluation, we’ll work with you to coordinate all the details before our specialist sees your child in person.
  • We’ll also help you navigate logistical items including lodging options, transportation services, local restaurants and parking.
• At your visit, we’ll provide a comprehensive review of your child’s care and symptoms, and you’ll be able to ask the doctor any questions. We’ll also provide written recommendations to help you make informed decisions about your child’s treatment plan.

Ready to get started? Call us (choose option three) or schedule a time for your initial call now:

Frequently asked questions

We’re here to help you find answers and get advice about your child’s health. Expand the windows below for additional information and answers to FAQs about second opinions at the Digestive Health Institute.