Do you have a right to a second opinion?  

The General Medical Council, which regulates doctors, says doctors ‘must recognise a patient’s right to choose whether to accept your advice, and respect their right – to seek a second opinion’. However, receiving a second opinion on the NHS is not a legal right.

Do you need a second opinion? 

Before asking for a second opinion, it is worth asking your healthcare professional to go over your diagnosis and explain anything you don’t understand.  If you’re unhappy with your diagnosis or would like to try a different course of treatment, tell them.

Your family or carer can also ask for a second opinion on your behalf, but only with your consent.  If they request a second opinion on your behalf, they should have all the information about your illness or condition, and check they understand it well. 

Sometimes a consultant may ask a colleague to provide a second opinion.  For example, doctors may ask a colleague about a complicated case, or they may need to refer a patient to a consultant with a sub-specialty interest.  

Things to consider 

• You may need to travel further to attend appointments at a different hospital.
• If you have a serious medical condition requiring urgent treatment, you should discuss this with your current healthcare professional and ask whether any delay in starting treatment could affect your wellbeing.
• Requesting a second opinion should not negatively impact your care or relationship with your GP or any other healthcare professional taking care of you.
• You may be able to find a specialist who has particular expertise in your medical condition, especially if it's rare, to give you a second opinion. 

How do you get a second opinion? 

You need to proactively seek a second opinion, which may involve, for example, asking to see a different GP at your practice, or going back to your GP to be re-referred to a different hospital specialist.

If your GP agrees to refer you to a new consultant, they will be told that this is for a second opinion. They will also send your medical records to the new specialist. You will be treated as a new patient referral, and this will mean you need to wait longer for treatment. Considering the pros and cons of seeking a second opinion will help you make well-informed decisions about your treatment and your health.