A review of a patient’s problem by a second individual, namely a physician or other health care provider (for example, a clinical psychologist), and the rendering of an opinion and advice to the referring physician. The review in most instances involves the independent examination of the patient by the consultant. In a consultation some evidence, such as x-rays, may not need to be repeated if it is made available to the consultant. The consultant’s opinion and advice are not binding on the referring physician. A “second opinion” is a special kind of consultation in which a second surgeon consults on the desirability of elective surgery which has been recommended by the first surgeon. (Elective surgery is surgery which is not stated to be necessary to preserve life or prevent serious disability.)