FAQ

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GENERAL
What does Avela do?
How does Avela work?
Do I need to live near your practice to work with Avela?
Can Avela take over managing my cancer care?

Because we do not provide hands-on treatment, Avela does not manage prescriptions, urgent symptom calls, or daily side effects. Those remain under the care of your local treating physician.

SECOND OPINIONS
What is a cancer second opinion?
When is a second opinion most helpful?
Do second opinions ever change the plan?

Sometimes. Many second opinions confirm the original approach. Others identify additional options, different sequencing of treatment, or clinical trial opportunities worth discussing. Either way, most patients find value in having clarity before moving forward.

Can Avela help if I don’t yet have a cancer diagnosis?

Yes. Some patients seek guidance after abnormal screening results or when they are concerned about cancer risk. We can help review findings, explain next steps, and provide clarity before major decisions are made.

WORKING WITH YOUR CARE TEAM
Do I need to stop seeing my current oncologist?

No. Avela is designed to complement your existing care team, not replace it. Most patients continue working with their oncologist while using Avela for additional perspective.

Will my doctor be offended if I seek a second opinion?
How do I use Avela’s guidance with my current oncologist?

We provide an independent review and a clear written summary you can share with your care team. The goal is to help you understand the key details and options so you can have a more confident, informed conversation with your oncologist. You’ll know which questions to ask and what to discuss next based on your situation.

What if your recommendation differs from my current treatment plan?

Different physicians may approach situations from slightly different perspectives. If there are differences, we explain the reasoning clearly so you and your care team can evaluate the options together.

How will the recommendation be communicated?

You will receive a written report summarizing our findings and recommendations. We also review the results with you directly so you understand the reasoning and next steps.

What if I want to change my care team?

That decision is entirely yours. Our goal is to support you regardless of the care team you choose.

RECORDS AND SECURITY
How do you obtain my medical records?
Is my information secure?
Can I upload my records myself?
Treatment Guidance
Can Avela help identify clinical trial opportunities?
Can Avela review genetic or molecular testing results?
Can Avela help if I have a rare cancer?

Yes. Rare cancers are one situation where additional expert review can be especially valuable. We carefully evaluate available research and treatment strategies to help clarify potential options.

Can Avela help if my cancer has returned or progressed?

Yes. Rare cancers are one situation where additional expert review can be especially valuable. We carefully evaluate available research and treatment strategies to help clarify potential options.

Choosing Avela
How is Avela different from a traditional hospital second opinion?

Hospital second opinions typically happen within one institution, and recommendations may naturally reflect the programs and services available there. Avela provides independent review that is not tied to a hospital system. We help you understand which tests and treatment options may be worth discussing, regardless of where you receive care.

Why choose Avela instead of a second opinion from a large cancer center?

Large cancer centers can offer excellent care, but second opinions there may involve long waitlists, travel, and in-system constraints. Avela provides independent guidance through a fast, virtual process so you can get clarity from the comfort of your home. You can also invite family or friends to join the visit without needing to travel or take time off work.

How is Avela different from online cancer information or AI tools?

General information does not account for the details of your individual case. Avela provides physician-led analysis tailored specifically to your situation and goals.

Who reviews my case at Avela?

Each case is reviewed by an experienced oncology physician who analyzes your records, imaging, pathology, and current recommendations. The goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized guidance.

How detailed is the case review?

Your records are reviewed in depth, including pathology reports, imaging studies, prior treatments, and genomic testing when available. The final report outlines key findings and explains the reasoning behind recommended strategies.

Patient Experience
What happens during the consultation?

During the consultation we review your situation, explain the key findings from your case review, and discuss potential strategies. You will have time to ask questions and ensure you understand your options.

Can my family members join the consultation?

Yes. Many patients choose to have family members present during consultations so they can hear the discussion and support decision-making.

Can I ask follow-up questions after the consultation?

Yes. Depending on your service or membership level, you may be able to ask follow-up questions after the consultation to clarify recommendations.

Membership and Pricing
Is this only a one-time consultation?

Some patients use Avela for a single comprehensive review. Others choose ongoing guidance so new scans, treatment decisions, or questions can be reviewed as their situation evolves.
Compare one-time review vs membership on Plans & Pricing.

How does membership work?

Membership provides ongoing access to oncology guidance as your care evolves. Members can return for review of new scans, treatment decisions, or other questions over time.
See what’s included in each plan.

Do you work with insurance?

No. Avela operates outside the traditional insurance model. This allows us to focus on detailed case review and personalized guidance without the time constraints often associated with insurance billing. In some cases, you may be able to use funds from a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
View pricing and payment options.

Why does Avela use a cash-pay model instead of insurance?

Insurance requirements often influence what is covered and how care is delivered. Avela is cash-pay and not billed to insurance, which allows more time for thoughtful review and guidance based on what you need.
See Plans & Pricing for current rates and what’s included.

Do you accept Medicare?

Avela services are not covered by Medicare or commercial insurance. If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you are still able to use Avela as a self-pay service, with the understanding that services are not submitted for reimbursement.
Review payment details on Plans & Pricing.

Availability and International Patients
Is Avela available everywhere in the U.S.?

Avela is currently available in Virginia, with plans to expand to additional states.

Can I get a virtual second opinion if I don’t live in the U.S.?

Yes. Avela works with international patients and provides expert virtual second opinions regardless of location. You can securely upload your medical records in English through our platform, and we will review your case and provide a detailed consultation and written report. The fee for international second opinion consultations is $2,800 (USD).** This reflects the additional complexity of reviewing international health records and coordinating across global time zones.

Process and Timeline
Will seeking a second opinion delay my treatment?

No. The review process is designed to be efficient so you can receive guidance without slowing your care.

How long does the process take?

Once we receive your medical records, most cases can be reviewed within a few days and recommendations are typically delivered within days. The biggest factor is how quickly records and imaging can be collected and shared.

I’m still waiting on labs or imaging. Can you still help?

Often, yes. We can begin with what’s available and help you understand what information matters most and what questions to ask while results are pending. If a specific test is needed before recommendations can be finalized, we will tell you that clearly.

Why does Avela use a cash-pay model instead of insurance?

Insurance requirements often influence what is covered and how care is delivered. Avela is cash-pay and not billed to insurance, which allows more time for thoughtful review and guidance based on what you need.
See Plans & Pricing for current rates and what’s included.

Do you accept Medicare?

Avela services are not covered by Medicare or commercial insurance. If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you are still able to use Avela as a self-pay service, with the understanding that services are not submitted for reimbursement.
Review payment details on Plans & Pricing.

Need more help?

Our support team is ready to answer any remaining questions.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a discovery call to discuss which path is right for you.