Insurers hate paying for unnecessary surgeries or ineffective treatments. That's why many now require or incentivise second opinions. The China medical second opinion market forecast shows that health insurance companies are a growing type segment, as they partner with telemedicine platforms to offer free or discounted second opinions to their members. It's a win‑win: insurers save money, patients get peace of mind.

What's the model? Some insurers mandate a second opinion for certain procedures (back surgery, bariatric surgery). Others offer voluntary programs with financial incentives (lower copays). The China medical second opinion market analysis notes that the fastest‑growing type is online physicians portals, because insurers can integrate them into their mobile apps.

But there's a conflict of interest: if the insurer's goal is to save money, they might steer patients to cheaper (not necessarily better) options. That's why some patients distrust insurer‑sponsored second opinions.

The bottom line: if your insurer offers a free second opinion, take it. But also consider an independent one. Don't let the payer be your only advisor.