Johns Hopkins orthopaedic surgeon James Ficke recently reviewed the case of a complex trauma patient seeking a medical second opinion. Connected through health care company Grand Rounds, Ficke was able to offer reassurance that her care was thorough and she was progressing well with her recovery — all without ever being in the same room.

When matched through Grand Rounds, Johns Hopkins physicians can have consultations in person or via telemedicine with patients from certain participating states. “These interactions build patient confidence and often are straightforward. As we explore growth within Johns Hopkins and look at approaches that extend our ability to be a national and global leader, medical second opinions permit our faculty to help more people,” says Ficke.

Co-founded by former Johns Hopkins radiologist Lawrence Hofmann, Grand Rounds functions as part telemedicine program and part medical concierge service to help patients get the support needed to navigate their health care needs. From complex cases to primary care, patients can get remote second opinions on their current diagnosis or treatment plan in a matter of days from physicians at leading medical institutions across the country, including Johns Hopkins.

Johns Hopkins orthopaedic surgeons, urologists, neurosurgeons and gastroenterologists were added to Grand Rounds’ offering of physicians in the fall of 2017; Johns Hopkins general surgeons and pediatricians were added in February 2018.

Grand Rounds connects patients with the most qualified doctor for their needs by algorithmically ranking practicing physicians in the United States on metrics such as treatment patterns, patient volumes, procedural volumes and medical outcomes.

Should the patient wish to see a doctor in person, Grand Rounds staff will speak with them about their preferences and willingness to travel before matching them with a physician. Then, staff will verify insurance compatibility, schedule the appointment and forward medical records on the patient’s behalf.

Grand Rounds is provided as a benefit by employers such as Comcast and Wal-Mart and is also available on a per-case basis for a fee. Once a patient is enrolled, they can request a medical service through the website, mobile app or phone call.