Second opinions are almost always a good thing – whether filing your taxes, making a large purchase, or monitoring your health.  Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is making it easier for you to get a free second opinion on a number of critical health issues.  Horizon BCBSNJ has posted to its website 52 episodes of PBS’s award-winning health information series, “Second Opinion.”

Second Opinion features panels of doctors and other medical professionals in candid discussions of real-life medical issues and treatment options.  Made possible by a sponsorship by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), the program presents health and wellness information in a way that both engages and empowers consumers to take more control of their health.

 “The information discussed on Second Opinion is relevant to everyone’s health,” noted Doctor Richard Popiel, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Horizon BCBSNJ.  “The series covers everything from how to ease lower back pain to the latest cancer treatment options.  Even if you only watch Second Opinion for a few minutes you will learn how experts in medicine are working to keep you healthy and out of the doctor’s office.”

To view full 30 minute episodes or 5 minute clips of each Second Opinion episode, visit the Horizon BCBSNJ website at: www.HorizonBlue.com/SecondOpinion.

The program is hosted by the nationally acclaimed physician, Dr. Peter Salgo, who is currently a practicing physician at Columbia University Medical Center.  He is also a professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and an Emmy-winning Health and Science Correspondent.

 “I am pleased that Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey recognizes the importance of sharing with its members the valuable health care information contained in Second Opinion,” said Dr. Salgo. “The goal of the program is to be engaging and help consumers gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare system through the eyes of the treating physician. And by working with Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, I am confident we will do just that.”

Second Opinion is produced by University of Rochester Medical Center and WXXI Public Broadcasting of Rochester, New York, and West 175 Productions of Seattle. The Second Opinion production team works extensively with a team of medical advisors to ensure viewers receive solid medical information, which will empower them in their healthcare decisions.

Since October 2005, more than 235 PBS stations throughout the country have aired Second Opinion. 

About Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is the oldest and largest health insurer in the state serving over 3.6 million members. Horizon BCBSNJ is New Jersey's only not-for-profit, health services corporation and is headquartered in Newark with offices in Wall, Mt. Laurel, and West Trenton.

Horizon BCBSNJ provides a broad array of health and dental insurance products and services for individuals and small and large companies, including national companies headquartered in New Jersey.  Horizon BCBSNJ is committed to improving the health care experience for all the communities we serve as well as helping our members become and stay healthy. 

Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.