Insurance firm BF&M is to offer clients an expert second opinion from doctors — without them having to travel overseas.

In a first for the Island, BF&M has introduced a “Remote Second Opinion” scheme, where case notes can be reviewed by medics at some of the top hospitals in the US.

The firm’s president and CEO John Wight said: “BF&M has partnered with an organisation called WorldCare who will work with local physicians of BF&M’s clients in Bermuda to gather medical records and send them to the overseas medical team best suited to evaluate our clients’ condition and plan of care.”

He explained that, after specialists have reviewed a case, WorldCare coordinates a call involving the patient, Bermuda medics and the lead specialist from overseas to discuss the case.

Mr Wight said: “The enhanced medical review process provides the peace of mind that BF&M health clients deserve, without their having to arrange overseas appointments and the time and expense of overseas travel.”

And he added that BF&M insured clients would not face extra charges for using the new service.

He added: “BF&M has met with local physician leaders who support the service.”

The new scheme covers a total of 27 different medical conditions, including cancer and heart disease, both major health problems in Bermuda.

Conditions like Aids, major trauma, major organ transplants and strokes are also among the conditions covered.

American hospitals taking part in the scheme include the renowned Brigham & Women’s and Massachusetts General, both in Boston.

Mr Wight said: “BF&M is pleased to be the first Bermuda health insurer to offer a unique and new service offering to Bermuda-based companies.”

A spokesman for WorldCare said that the scheme offered “peace of mind” with a “team of world-class physicians” available to support patients and their on-Island doctors.

He added: “During the stress of important medical decisions, that can be a real life-saver.”