If you are unhappy with the advice you have been given by your GP, consultant, or another healthcare professional, you may ask for a second (or further) opinion.
Although you do not have a legal right to a second opinion, you have the right to ask for one. A healthcare professional will rarely refuse to refer you for one unless there is sufficient reason.
Who else can request a second opinion?
Your family or carer can request a second opinion on your behalf, but only with your consent. If someone is requesting a second opinion on your behalf, they must have all the information about your illness or condition, and make sure they understand it thoroughly.
Your GP or consultant may ask a colleague to provide a second opinion if they are not fully certain of their diagnosis or suggested course of treatment.
What if I would like to see a different GP?
If you would like a second opinion after receiving advice (for example a diagnosis or suggested course of treatment) from your GP, you can ask them to refer you to another GP. You may also consider seeing another GP at your local surgery, if you are registered at a multi-GP surgery. Or you can change your GP altogether.
What if I would like to see a different consultant?
If you would like a second opinion after seeing a consultant, you need to ask your GP to refer you again. The new consultant will be told that this is your second opinion and will be sent any relevant test results or X-rays previously carried out.
How long will I have to wait for a second opinion?
If you request a second opinion, you should be aware that this will not take priority, and you may have to wait. A second opinion with a different consultant will usually be at a different hospital, which may involve some travelling.
What is the alternative to seeking a second opinion?
Before asking for a second opinion, it is worth asking your GP or consultant to go over and explain anything you do not understand.
If you are unhappy with your diagnosis or would like an alternative course of treatment to be considered, discuss this with them. Your GP or consultant will be happy to explain things and in many cases there may be no need for a second opinion.
