Second Opinions
A fresh look before a big decision
Surgery is a big step. If you have been told you need an operation, or something about a past one does not feel right, a second opinion gives you another set of eyes on your imaging, your records, and your options.
Dr. Paul Norio Morton, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a second opinion confirms the plan you already have — and that is a useful answer, too.
Two ways to meet
Who It's For
Common reasons patients ask for a second opinion
What to Send
Records that make a second opinion worthwhile
The more we can review ahead of time, the more your visit can focus on your questions. Send what you have; we can help request the rest.
Fax records to (808) 439-6202 or email contact@pacificboneandjoint.com. Include your name, date of birth, and the best phone number to reach you.
- 1
Your imaging
X-ray, MRI, and CT studies — upload them through our secure imaging link so we can review them before your visit.
Upload imaging → - 2
Operative reports
If you have had surgery on the joint or bone in question, the operative report tells us exactly what was done.
- 3
Implant card, if you have one
For a joint replacement, the card or sticker sheet listing the implant make and size is very helpful.
- 4
Prior notes and records
Clinic notes, therapy notes, and any written recommendations from the surgeon you have already seen.
How It Works
Three steps to a second opinion
Request a second opinion
Message us on Klara or call and let us know you are looking for a second opinion. Our team will tell you what to send and help you choose an in-person or video visit.
Send your records and imaging
Upload your imaging and fax or bring your operative reports, implant card, and prior notes. Reviewing them ahead of time makes the visit far more useful.
Meet with Dr. Morton
In person at our Honolulu clinic, or by video visit. You will hear what we see in your imaging and records, what your options are, and what we would recommend — including when the plan you already have is a good one.
Neighbor islands
Start by video, travel only if needed
Upload your imaging and send your records first. Many neighbor-island second opinions begin with a video visit, so you fly to Honolulu only if an in-person exam or new imaging is needed. Big Island patients can also be seen in Hilo or Kona (by appointment only).
International patients
Second opinions by doxy.me
Patients outside the United States meet us through our secure doxy.me room. Upload your imaging beforehand. What we can offer depends on the laws where you are located — see our disclaimer.
Insurance & cost
Ask about cost before your visit
Depending on your plan, a second-opinion visit may be covered like any specialist consultation; some plans require a referral first, and self-pay is available. Please ask our team about cost before your visit so there are no surprises. See the plans we accept →
Common Questions
Second-opinion questions, answered
Will a second opinion offend my current surgeon?+
Second opinions are a normal part of orthopedic care, especially before surgery, and most surgeons expect them. With your permission we can share our notes with your current surgeon, and we will tell you plainly when we agree with the plan you already have.
Do I need a referral for a second opinion?+
Most plans do not require one, but Ohana Medicare, AlohaCare, QUEST (Medicaid), VA, and Tricare Prime require a referral or prior authorization before your visit. Check with your plan or referring provider, and ask our team about cost before you come in.
Can the second opinion be done by video?+
Often, yes, when your imaging has been uploaded and your records have been sent ahead. If we need to examine you or take new X-rays, we will schedule an in-person visit in Honolulu or at the clinic closest to you.
What if I don’t have my operative report or implant card?+
Send what you have. Your previous surgeon’s office or the hospital where you had surgery can usually provide the operative report and implant information, and our team can help you request them.
Do you give second opinions on shoulders?+
Our shoulder and elbow care is non-surgical, so we do not operate on shoulders. We can review shoulder imaging and discuss non-surgical options, and if surgery is genuinely the right answer we coordinate a referral to a trusted shoulder specialist.
Patient Reviews
What patients say
4.9 average across 509 ratings on 8 review sites
“I have multiple orthopedic issues with my right shoulder and right knee. I had a great conversation with Dr. Paul Morton. I felt as though he really heard what I had to say and listened to my concerns. I left the office feeling I got his honest opinion and that he had my best interest at heart.”
— Angelo D.· Google review
“Needed a second opinion. I felt a million times better after seeing him. Very honest and caring. Everyone in the office is very nice and helpful. I will highly recommend Dr. Morton to my family and friends.”
— Lori N.· Google review
Review excerpts reflect individual patient experiences and may be lightly condensed. Results vary.
Want another set of eyes on your plan?
Request a second opinion on Klara or call us, then upload your imaging so we can review it before we meet. New here? See what to expect at your first visit.