Clinical Review Guide
Welcome to the Cleveland Clinic Clinical Review Guide
Our guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Cleveland Clinic Clinical Review, answering common questions about the program. Inside, you'll find details on the review process, referral submission, and introductions to our Virtual Liaison team, along with what to expect during and after the review.
Our goal is to ensure you feel confident assisting your clients throughout the process.
For any questions, please contact the Cleveland Clinic Clinical Review team at: SRAccess@ccf.org.
Before we get started, let's go over the basics: What is a Clinical Review?
A Clinical Review is a remote medical record evaluation conducted by a Cleveland Clinic physician specialist, providing participants with essential treatment insights and potential options. This service is designed to empower individuals with the information needed to make informed healthcare decisions but is not intended for those requiring urgent medical care.
The goal is to give peace of mind, ensuring you receive an accurate diagnosis and the best possible treatment plan.
Eligible participants must be:
- 18 years of age or older
- A covered dependent on the employee health plan
- Have a medical diagnosis and treatment plan from an existing physician
Why Cleveland Clinic?
Meet Our Virtual Liaison Team
Our experienced team is committed to guiding you through every step of the journey. You'll be paired with a dedicated Virtual Liaison who will support you throughout the Clinical Review process by:
- Assisting with medical record collection
- Answering any questions you have about the Clinical Review program
- Collaborating with a Cleveland Clinic physician specialist to review your records
- Contacting you after the Clinical Review to share information and education about your diagnosis.
Tim Gaydos-Baker
Tim Gaydos-Baker has been a Cleveland Clinic caregiver for 11 years, starting in the customer service department as a phone rep and then a quality assurance specialist. He now works as a project manager in the Product Operations department, assisting in facilitating programs that help more patients receive the world class care Cleveland Clinic provides, including the Clinical Review program.
Supporting Clinical Review patients is important to Tim because health issues are something everyone will need to deal with at some point, and he knows how reassuring it can be to have some of the best specialists in the world weigh in on your care and ensure you are on the best path possible. Being able to reduce the stress and anxiety patients may feel about their situation is what he strives to do every day.
Jackie Stafford
Jackie Stafford has worked as a Cleveland Clinic caregiver for six years. Her journey in patient care began as a Patient Service Specialist and then a Surgery Coordinator for Pain Management. She currently works as a Client Care Coordinator with the Product Operations Department assisting with the Clinical Review program.
Jackie's passion for helping Clinical Review patients comes from her own experiences with limited healthcare services. Dealing with health issues can cause a lot of uncertainty and stress. Jackie is passionate about helping patients talk through their concerns, and providing reassurance that they will receive world class care from the best specialists.
Mohamed Ibrahim
Mohamed brings a diverse background in healthcare and program management. With a strong educational foundation in physical therapy from Youngstown State University, he has gained extensive experience in both clinical and administrative roles at Cleveland Clinic. This hands-on experience in healthcare settings has fostered a deep understanding of patient care, operations, and management.
In addition to clinical work, Mohamed has also managed programs at a drug rehabilitation recovery center, where they focused on improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency. Currently, he serves as a Project Manager II for Product Operations, bringing fresh, innovative ideas to enhance patient experience and optimize operations. With a passion for making a meaningful impact, he is committed to driving positive change in healthcare through thoughtful project management and creative solutions.
Kathy Brichford
Kathy Brichford has been with Cleveland Clinic for 17 years, beginning her career as an Administrative Assistant II. For the past 11 years, she has dedicated her work exclusively to the Executive Health Program, supporting individual patients as they navigate their care at the Cleveland Clinic. In addition to her work with Executive Health, Kathy also provides service and coordination for Clinical Review participants, helping ensure a seamless experience across both programs. She has compassion for listening and acting on patient’s concerns.
Kathy studied business at Bryant & Stratton College, where she built the foundational skills that have supported her professional journey. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys spending time with her family and has a passion for gardening and houseplants— she’s known for her impressive green thumb.
Let's get started...
Clinical Review Process
The following sections outline the four simple steps of the Clinical Review process
Step 1 | Medical Record Collection
Once you begin the Clinical Review process, you will be connected to your dedicated Virtual Liaison who will guide you through the medical record collection process.
Your Virtual Liaison will provide a tailored list of the medical records we need based on your diagnosis. To make this process as easy and efficient as possible for you and your local doctors, we collaborate with a medical record collection company.
It's essential to provide the names of your hometown doctors and the locations of your appointments and tests - this ensures we gather all the necessary medical records.
The collection process typically takes about 10 business days.
Step 2 | The Clinical Review
Next, with the support of your Virtual Liaison, the Cleveland Clinic physician specialist will conduct your Clinical Review.
Your Virtual Liaison will collaborate with a Cleveland Clinic physician specialist to review your medical records. The physician will determine whether your diagnosis and treatment plan align with the standard of care for patients with similar symptoms and conditions.
Step 3 | The Clinical Review Results
Your Virtual Liaison will contact you to share the findings of the Clinical Review.
After the Cleveland Clinic physician reviews the clinical information, your Virtual Liaison will schedule a call to walk you through the findings of your Clinical Review, typically within two business days.
What to Expect:
During the meeting, your Virtual Liaison will share whether the Cleveland Clinic physician agrees with your current diagnosis and treatment plan or if there are alternative options to consider. We find that treatment plan modifications are recommended in up to 60% of completed Clinical Reviews.
This call is provided at no cost to you and will not be billed to your insurance.
Support After Your Clinical Review
If the Cleveland Clinic physician confirms your current diagnosis and treatment plan, you can confidently continue care with your local providers.
If Cleveland Clinic recommends further evaluation or a change to your treatment plan, your dedicated Virtual Liaison will personally guide you through the next steps.
They'll ensure a seamless transition to the scheduling team, who will help coordinate appointments with Cleveland Clinic physician specialists using your commercial insurance.
Travel to a Cleveland Clinic facility may now be necessary. On-site appointments are required for some specialty areas. Your Virtual Liaison will provide more information, including discounted hotel pricing.
We strive to make your travel as convenient as possible. For more information, please review our campus visitor guides:
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus (Cleveland, Ohio): Parking, Lodging and Transportation
Cleveland Clinic Florida: Parking, Lodging and Transportation
"I was told my condition merited additional testing and I was offered the chance to meet with a Cleveland Clinic specialist.
I was so relieved to finally have the right diagnosis that explained the symptoms I've been experiencing for more than a year."
Allen C. | Clinical Review Participant
Frequently Asked Questions
Click each arrow below for responses to our frequently asked questions about the Clinical Review.
Your employer and Cleveland Clinic have teamed up to give you and your family access to Cleveland Clinic's world renowned specialists. They will review your diagnosis and medical records to ensure you are on the right track.
Your health and well-being are top priorities. This program is designed to provide peace of mind, knowing you’re in the hands of trusted professionals who are committed to delivering the best possible outcomes. Cleveland Clinic, recognized across the U.S. and around the globe for its exceptional care, is here to support you on your health journey.
Lead a vibrant, healthy life with confidence, knowing you have access to world-class care.
A Clinical Review is completed by a Cleveland Clinic specialist who will conduct a thorough review of your diagnosis, medical records, and/or treatment plan. The specialist will determine if your plan of care is consistent with what they would recommend for a patient with your diagnosis or if they suggest an alternative course of action.
Your dedicated Virtual Liaison will schedule a virtual meeting to review the outcome of the Clinical Review.
Based on the outcome of the Clinical Review, you can determine if you would like to continue with your current treatment in your local market or schedule an appointment with a Cleveland Clinic provider for further evaluation.
The Clinical Review is conducted electronically, so no travel is required. If you choose to seek care at Cleveland Clinic as a result of the outcome of your Clinical Review, travel may be required.
You may be an ideal participant if you are over the age of 18 and have been diagnosed with a serious, complex or rare condition and are interested in learning about optimal and best-in-class treatment plans.
• Your dedicated Cleveland Clinic Virtual Liaison will assist in collecting your medical records to support your existing diagnosed condition.
• Next, Cleveland Clinic will match your condition with the correct physician specialist who will review the medical records provided. They will determine if your plan of care is consistent with what they would recommend for a patient with your diagnosis, or if they'd suggest a modification to the existing plan.
*Please note: You will not interact directly with a physician during the Clinical Review process.
• Based on the Clinical Review screening, you have the opportunity to continue with your current treatment plan confidently in your home market. Or, should the screening indicate opportunity to optimize the treatment plan, your Virtual Liaison will assist in scheduling an appointment with a Cleveland Clinic physician specialist for further evaluation and treatment options.
Your dedicated Virtual Liaison will work with you or a covered family member (18 years of age and older) to obtain your medical records. Typically, you’ll receive feedback within five business days, through a call with your Virtual Liaison.
The Clinical Review is offered at no cost to you and your covered dependents (18 years of age and older) as part of your employer sponsored health plan.
If you decide to seek care at Cleveland Clinic after your Clinical Review, your Virtual Liaison will help facilitate a connection to the right physician specialist and assist with appointment scheduling. Depending on where you reside, you may be eligible for a virtual visit. All costs will be billed through your insurance plan. Please contact the number on the back of your health plan ID card to understand what services are covered.
Travel to a Cleveland Clinic facility may now be necessary. On-site appointments are required for some specialty areas. Your Virtual Liaison will provide more information, including discounted hotel pricing.
We strive to make your travel as convenient as possible. For more information, please review our campus visitor guides:
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus (Cleveland, Ohio): Parking, Lodging and Transportation
Cleveland Clinic Florida: Parking, Lodging and Transportation
Patient-centered care: We don't just care for your health conditions. We care about you. With more than 3,900 employed physicians to diagnose and treat patients, our staff is committed to providing the best care for serious and complex medical conditions.
National recognition: Cleveland Clinic is recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for its expertise and care.
Collaborative providers: Our providers are board-certified and fellowship trained experts who work together to create a treatment plan just for you. Only the highest standards ensure excellent outcomes.
Innovation and research: We're focused on today - and tomorrow. Our focus on research and offering the latest options means that you can find a wide range of clinical trials and other care that you can't find elsewhere.
