Expert Medical Opinions from Kobe University Hospital — Without Traveling to Japan
Kobe University Hospital offers international patients the opportunity to obtain expert medical opinions from our specialists without traveling to Japan.
Our online second opinion service allows patients and their physicians to receive an expert review of medical records, imaging studies, pathology reports, and treatment plans. The consultation is conducted remotely, helping patients better understand their diagnosis and available treatment options.
Please note that a second opinion is intended to provide professional advice and recommendations based on the information provided. It does not establish a physician-patient relationship and does not include medical treatment or prescriptions.
Who Can Benefit?
Our International Online Second Opinion service may be helpful for patients who:
- Have been diagnosed with a complex or rare disease
- Are considering major surgery or advanced treatment
- Would like confirmation of a diagnosis or treatment plan
- Are seeking access to expertise available at Kobe University Hospital
- Wish to explore treatment options in Japan before considering travel
Available Specialties
Online second opinions are available in all clinical specialties offered at Kobe University Hospital.
Upon receiving your medical information, IMCC will coordinate with the most appropriate department and specialist for your condition.
For detailed information about our clinical departments, please visit our Department Directory.
Required Documents
To evaluate a case, we generally require:
- Medical summary from the treating physician
- Medical reports and test results
- Imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET, X-ray, etc.)
- Pathology reports, if applicable
- List of current medications
- Specific questions the patient wishes to ask
Additional documents may be requested depending on the case.
How to Request an Online Second Opinion
1 .Initial Inquiry
Contact a medical coordination company and submit basic medical information.
2. Document Review
Relevant specialists review the submitted materials.
3. Acceptance Assessment
We determine whether an online second opinion can be provided and identify the appropriate specialist.
4. Quotation
A quotation will be provided before the consultation is arranged.
5. Online Consultation
The specialist provides an expert medical opinion through a secure online consultation.
6. Written Summary
A written summary or opinion letter may be provided when appropriate.
7. Fees
The fee for an online second opinion will be provided in advance following the acceptance assessment.
No consultation will be scheduled until the quotation has been accepted.
Payment arrangements will be coordinated through IMCC or the designated medical coordination company.
Important Notes
This service is intended for consultation and advice only.
No medical treatment or prescriptions will be provided.
Emergency cases cannot be accommodated.
Recommendations are based solely on the information submitted.
Additional information may be requested before a final opinion can be provided.
Contact
The International Medical Communication Center (IMCC) serves as the primary contact point for international patients and medical coordination companies seeking an online second opinion from Kobe University Hospital.
Please contact IMCC for further information and application procedures.
