The series is produced for public television by WXXI-TV, the University of Rochester Medical Center and West 175 Productions.
The goal of the series is to improve doctor/patient communication and empower viewers to take charge of their own healthcare, and in turn, help them navigate the medical system for better health outcomes.
Second Opinion focuses on health literacy in a way that is relevant and accessible to both viewers and to physicians, in a format that engages and entertains viewers In addition to presenting a medical case each week, which generates a discussion among the panel to debate the pros and cons of diagnostic testing, interpret test results, and prescribe the best course of action, the series includes two special segments.
“Second Opinion Five" is a short segment that allows a health care provider to speak directly to the audience, giving viewers the top five things they need to know about a topic (i.e.: Five ways to prevent skin cancer, five signs that you need to go to the ER after a head injury).
The site includes full episodes of recent seasons, medical information in the form of searchable video, resources and transcripts.