Still searching for answers? Get a second opinion from a rheumatologist who has time to listen.

Complex autoimmune and rheumatic conditions rarely fit in a 15-minute visit. We offer unhurried, in-depth second-opinion consultations for patients who want clarity, a fresh perspective, and a plan that makes sense.

Request a Second Opinion

Is a Second Opinion Right for You?

Many of the patients we see have already been through a great deal. A second opinion may help if any of these sound familiar:

  • Your case is complex. You have overlapping symptoms, more than one autoimmune condition, or a diagnosis that doesn't seem to fully explain what you're experiencing.

  • You feel unheard. Your concerns have been minimized, your appointments feel rushed, or you've been told your labs are "normal" while you still don't feel well.

  • Treatments haven't worked. You've tried several medications, including biologics or DMARDs, without lasting improvement, or side effects have made them hard to continue.

  • Your diagnosis is uncertain. You've been told you "might have" lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's, vasculitis, or another condition, but no one has given you a clear answer.

  • You're facing a big decision. You've been recommended a new biologic, long-term steroids, or another major treatment and want confidence before you begin.

  • You want peace of mind. Your care may be going well, and you simply want an experienced specialist to confirm the plan.

Seeking a second opinion is not about doubting your doctor. It is about making sure you have the full picture.

Why Patients Choose Us for a Second Opinion

  • Time to truly listen. As a direct-care practice, we are not bound by insurance-driven appointment limits. Your visit is built around your questions, not the clock.

  • Focused expertise in complex autoimmune disease. Dr. Koolaee is a board-certified rheumatologist with experience in lupus, inflammatory arthritis, vasculitis, myositis, and other complex conditions.

  • A fresh, independent look. We review your history without assumptions, revisit the diagnosis from the ground up, and consider options that may not have been explored.

  • Partnership, not replacement. We work alongside your existing doctors. Our goal is a clear plan for you, wherever you receive care.

  • Transparent pricing. One clear fee for your second-opinion consultation, with no surprise bills. Contact us for current pricing.

  • Convenient Pasadena location. Serving patients across Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley, and greater Los Angeles. Telehealth visits are also available for patients in California, so you can get a second opinion from home.

How It Works

  • Request your consultation. Call us or complete the new patient inquiry form on our website. Our team will reach out to schedule and explain what to send.

  • Share your records. We gather your prior notes, lab results, imaging, and medication history before your visit, so our time together is spent on you, not paperwork.

  • Thorough review before you arrive. Dr. Koolaee personally reviews your full history ahead of time, looking for patterns, gaps, and anything that may have been missed.

  • An unhurried, in-depth visit. We set aside 90 minutes to hear your story in your own words, complete a careful examination, and answer every question.

  • A clear written summary. You leave with an explanation of our assessment, any recommended testing, and treatment options, written in plain language.

  • Coordination with your care team. With your permission, we share our findings with your current physicians. You can continue care where you are, or choose to continue with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. You can request a second opinion directly. If your physician would like to refer you, we welcome that too.

  • Seeking a second opinion is a normal, respected part of good medical care, especially for complex conditions. With your permission, we'll share our findings so everyone is on the same page.

  • We are a direct-care practice and do not bill insurance for visits. We can provide a superbill you may submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Lab work, medications, and imaging can often still be billed through your insurance.

  • After you schedule, we'll send a checklist. It typically includes prior rheumatology notes, recent labs, imaging reports, and a list of past and current medications.

  • You'll receive a written summary and recommendations. Some patients return to their current rheumatologist with a clearer plan; others choose to continue care with us through our membership program.

Ready for Answers?

You deserve to understand your condition and feel confident in your care. Let's take a fresh look together.

Request a Second Opinion