How to get a second opinion on the NHS is a common question for patients who are unsure about a diagnosis, concerned about their treatment plan, or want reassurance before making an important healthcare decision. In the UK, you can ask your GP or hospital consultant for another medical opinion, although a second opinion is not an automatic legal entitlement in every situation. Your request will be considered in light of your clinical needs and the available NHS services. Health A-Z : Second opinion+1
Whether you have received a diagnosis for a long-term condition, been advised to undergo surgery, or feel your symptoms have not been fully explained, seeking another professional opinion may help you understand your options.
This guide explains how to request a second opinion through the NHS, who to contact, what to do if your request is declined, and how to prepare for your appointment.
Key takeaways
- Start by discussing your concerns with your current GP or consultant.
- Explain why you want another opinion and what questions remain unanswered.
- Your GP may be able to refer you to another consultant or specialist.
- You may need to wait for a new appointment, and the second doctor may agree with the original diagnosis.
- If your request is refused, ask for the reasons and seek support from the hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), where available.
- Do not delay urgent or time-sensitive treatment while arranging a second opinion.
What is a second medical opinion?
A second medical opinion is an assessment of your symptoms, diagnosis or proposed treatment by a different healthcare professional. It gives you an opportunity to understand your condition from another clinical perspective.
For example, you might request a second opinion if:
- Your symptoms continue despite treatment.
- You have received a diagnosis that you do not fully understand.
- You have been advised to undergo surgery or another significant procedure.
- You want to understand the benefits, risks and alternatives of a proposed treatment.
- Your condition is complex and may require a specialist with particular expertise.
- You believe important symptoms or concerns have not been adequately addressed.
A second opinion is not necessarily a sign that your first doctor made a mistake. Different clinicians may interpret complex symptoms or evidence differently, but they may also reach the same conclusion.
The purpose is to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare, not to guarantee a different diagnosis or treatment.
Can you get a second opinion on the NHS?
Yes, you can ask for a second opinion through the NHS. However, you do not have an automatic legal right to receive one in every circumstance. NHS guidance explains that healthcare professionals will generally consider reasonable requests, particularly when there are genuine concerns about diagnosis or treatment. Health A-Z : Second opinion+1
Your GP or consultant may first discuss your concerns, explain the original assessment in more detail, or review whether further tests or a specialist referral are appropriate.
The process can vary depending on your condition, local NHS arrangements and whether you are receiving care from a GP, hospital consultant or mental health service.
In some cases, you may be referred to a different consultant. In others, a clinical review within your existing team may be appropriate.
Important: A request for a second opinion does not automatically mean you can choose any NHS hospital or specialist, and it does not guarantee that the NHS will fund an independent private consultation.
How to get a second opinion on the NHS: Step-by-step
How to Get a GP Appointment Quickly in the UK (Complete Practical Guide) | All Health and Care UK
Step 1: Speak to your current GP or consultant
Start by explaining what concerns you about your diagnosis or recommended treatment. Ask your doctor to clarify anything you do not understand before requesting another assessment.
If you have already seen a hospital consultant, you can discuss your concerns with the consultant or their clinical team. If you need help accessing primary care, read our guide on how to register with a GP in the UK.
Step 2: Explain why you want another opinion
Be specific about what you hope a second assessment will clarify. For example, explain whether your symptoms persist, you are concerned about treatment side effects, or you want to understand alternatives to surgery.
If your condition has not improved, bring details of the treatments you have tried and how your symptoms have changed.
Doctor points to and explains test results to male patient
Step 3: Ask whether a referral is appropriate
Ask your GP or consultant whether another doctor or a specialist could review your case. If appropriate, your GP may refer you to another consultant, who can assess you as a new patient.
The referral may include relevant medical records, previous test results and imaging. The second consultant does not automatically take over your care; any transfer of treatment needs to be agreed with the relevant clinicians and hospital. Royal Free London+1
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Step 4: Prepare your medical information
Collect your appointment letters, test results, medication list and a short timeline of your symptoms. Ask your healthcare team how to access relevant records or arrange for them to be shared with the new clinician.
Prepare a few questions about your diagnosis, possible treatments, risks and next steps.
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Step 5: Attend the second-opinion appointment
Explain your concerns and describe your symptoms in your own words. The clinician may review your medical history, examine you, assess existing test results or recommend further investigations.
Ask the clinician to explain their findings and how they compare with your original diagnosis or treatment plan.
How to ask your GP for a second opinion
You do not need to use complicated medical language to request a second opinion. A polite, direct conversation is usually the best starting point.
Explain what you are concerned about, what you have already tried, and why another assessment would help.
For example, you could say:
I appreciate the assessment and advice I have received so far. However, I still have concerns about my symptoms and would feel more confident about my next steps if another clinician could review my diagnosis and treatment options. Could we discuss whether a second opinion or specialist referral would be appropriate?
If you are concerned about a proposed operation, ask whether there are alternative treatments and whether obtaining another opinion could safely happen before treatment begins.
If you are unhappy with how your symptoms have been assessed, explain the specific issues you feel remain unresolved rather than focusing only on disagreement with the original clinician.
Can you get a second opinion from another NHS consultant?
Yes, you can ask for a second opinion from another NHS consultant, usually by discussing the request with your current consultant or GP.
If your GP agrees that a referral is appropriate, they may refer you to another consultant for assessment. The new consultant will generally receive relevant information about your previous investigations and treatment. Royal Free London+1
There are several things to consider:
- Waiting times: A second opinion may require a new outpatient referral and a separate wait for an appointment.
- Hospital location: The alternative consultant may work at another hospital, potentially requiring additional travel.
- Treatment arrangements: Seeing another consultant does not automatically transfer your ongoing care.
- Clinical agreement: The second consultant may reach the same conclusion as the first.
- Timing: If your condition needs prompt treatment, ask your clinical team whether waiting for another opinion is medically safe.
If you are concerned about a possible skin condition, for example, you can read our guide on how to check for skin cancer. However, a self-check or online article cannot replace a clinical assessment when a mole or skin lesion is changing or concerning.
What if your GP refuses a second opinion?
If your GP or consultant does not agree to arrange a second opinion, ask them to explain their reasons. You can clarify your concerns, provide additional information about your symptoms and ask whether an alternative review, further investigation or referral would be appropriate.
Consider the following steps:
- Ask for an explanation. Find out why a second opinion is not considered necessary or appropriate.
- Explain your concerns again. Give specific examples of ongoing symptoms, treatment difficulties or unanswered questions.
- Ask about other options. These may include a review by another clinician within the existing team or a different referral pathway.
- Seek patient support. If your concern relates to hospital care, contact the hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), where available.
- Consider the formal complaints process. If you believe your concerns have been handled improperly, you can ask the relevant NHS organisation how to make a complaint.
The NHS advises patients who encounter difficulties obtaining a second opinion in mental health services to seek support from PALS or an advocacy service, where appropriate. The precise process varies by service and clinical circumstances. NHS+1
Remember that a refusal does not automatically mean your concerns are invalid. It may reflect the clinician’s assessment, local arrangements or the availability of suitable services. You can still ask for a clear explanation and discuss reasonable alternatives.
Can you request a second opinion for mental health conditions?
Yes. A second opinion may be appropriate if you are unsure about a mental health diagnosis, concerned about medication, experiencing persistent symptoms or feel your current treatment plan needs review.
You can discuss your concerns with your GP, psychiatrist, mental health professional or care coordinator. Depending on your circumstances, your care team may be able to arrange a further assessment or refer you to a more specialised service. NHS+1
For example, if you are unsure about the treatment recommended for depression, our guides on how to talk to your GP about depression and SSRIs vs talking therapy for anxiety can help you prepare questions for your appointment.
If you feel your symptoms have not been adequately assessed, describe their impact on your daily life and explain what you would like the next assessment to address.
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent mental health support, seek urgent help rather than waiting for a second-opinion appointment.
Can you get a second opinion before surgery or major treatment?
You can ask for another opinion before an operation or significant treatment decision. This may help you better understand the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and consequences of delaying treatment.
Before making a decision, ask your consultant:
- What are the expected benefits of this treatment?
- What are the main risks and possible complications?
- Are there non-surgical or less invasive alternatives?
- What could happen if I delay treatment?
- Would a second opinion be appropriate in my case?
- Can the referral be arranged without compromising my care?
The most important consideration is whether waiting could affect your health. For a serious or time-sensitive condition, discuss the risks of delay with your clinical team before postponing treatment. Royal Free London+1
Is a second opinion on the NHS free?
A second opinion arranged through the NHS as part of NHS care is generally provided without an additional charge to an eligible patient. However, access to a particular specialist, a different hospital or an independently arranged private consultation depends on the circumstances and applicable funding arrangements.
If you are considering a private second opinion, ask the provider about consultation fees, whether your medical records can be reviewed in advance, and whether any recommended tests would incur additional costs.
Do not assume the NHS will reimburse a privately arranged appointment. If you want the NHS to fund a particular specialist assessment, discuss the referral and funding process with your GP or consultant first.
How long does it take to get a second opinion on the NHS?
There is no single waiting time for every second-opinion request. The time depends on the type of specialist, local referral arrangements, clinical urgency and appointment availability.
A second opinion may involve a new referral and assessment as a new patient. If additional tests are required, this may add time to the process. Royal Free London+1
To prepare while you wait:
- Ask whether your referral has been submitted and how you will receive an appointment.
- Check whether your current treatment should continue.
- Ask what symptoms should prompt you to seek earlier medical advice.
- Keep a record of any changes in your condition.
- Contact your clinical team if your symptoms worsen or your circumstances change.
If you need medical advice urgently, use the appropriate NHS urgent-care service rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
What is the difference between a second opinion and changing your NHS doctor?
A second opinion means asking another healthcare professional to assess your condition or treatment plan. Changing your GP or consultant is a separate decision that concerns who provides your ongoing care.
You may be able to request a different GP within your practice, depending on availability and local arrangements. If you want to change GP practices, you can review the process in our guide to registering with a GP in the UK.
For hospital care, changing consultants may require discussion with your clinical team or hospital management. The alternative consultant may not automatically assume responsibility for your ongoing treatment. cntw.nhs.uk+1
If your main concern is a communication problem or a lack of clarity about your diagnosis, you may find that a discussion with your current clinician resolves the issue without needing to change doctors.
What should you do while waiting for a second opinion?
Continue to follow the medical advice you have been given unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise. Do not stop prescribed medication or postpone important treatment without discussing the potential consequences with your clinician.
If your symptoms change, contact your GP or relevant care team. If you need urgent medical advice in England, use NHS 111 online or call 111. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, use the relevant local urgent-care service.
Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency. Do not wait for a second opinion if you need immediate medical attention. NHS+2
How to prepare for a second-opinion appointment
A little preparation can help you get more value from the appointment and ensure your concerns are clearly understood.
Second-opinion appointment checklist
Write down your main symptoms and when they started.List previous diagnoses, investigations and treatments.Bring a current list of medicines and relevant allergies.Gather available test results, scan reports and appointment letters.Write down the questions you want answered.Ask about treatment alternatives, risks and likely outcomes.Check whether further tests or follow-up appointments are needed.
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If you would like someone to attend the appointment with you, ask the service about its arrangements. A family member, friend or carer may help you remember information and discuss your concerns, subject to appropriate consent and clinical arrangements.
Frequently asked questions about NHS second opinions
1. Do I have a legal right to a second opinion on the NHS?
You can request a second opinion, but there is no automatic legal right to receive one in every circumstance. Your GP or consultant will consider your reasons and whether a further assessment is clinically appropriate. Health A-Z : Second opinion+1
2. Can I ask my GP to refer me to a different consultant?
Yes. Explain why you want another assessment and ask whether a referral to a different consultant is appropriate. Your GP will consider your clinical circumstances and the relevant referral arrangements. A new referral does not guarantee a particular consultant or hospital. Royal Free London+1
3. What happens if my doctor refuses a second opinion?
Ask for the reason and discuss other options, such as further investigation or a review by another clinician. For concerns involving hospital services, PALS may be able to explain your options. You can also use the appropriate NHS complaints procedure if necessary. NHS+1
4. Can I get a second opinion without telling my current doctor?
You can seek information about your options independently, but an NHS second-opinion referral will usually involve your GP or existing clinical team. Relevant medical records and test results may need to be shared so the other clinician can assess your case properly.
5. Can I get a second opinion for a rare or complex condition?
You can ask whether a specialist service or clinician with relevant expertise could review your case. Availability and funding depend on the condition, the clinical need and local NHS arrangements. Your GP or specialist may be able to advise on an appropriate referral. NHS+1
6. Will a second opinion change my diagnosis?
Not necessarily. The second clinician may agree with your original diagnosis, recommend additional tests, or suggest a different interpretation or treatment plan. The purpose is to help clarify your options, not to guarantee a different outcome.
7. Can I get a second opinion about mental health treatment?
Yes. You can discuss your concerns with your GP, psychiatrist or mental health team. Depending on your needs, a further assessment or specialist referral may be considered. PALS or an advocacy service may help if you have difficulty navigating the process. NHS+1
8. Can I request a second opinion before starting cancer treatment?
You can ask your cancer care team whether another specialist opinion is appropriate. However, cancer treatment may be time-sensitive, so discuss the potential consequences of any delay with your team before postponing treatment.
9. Can a family member request a second opinion for me?
A family member or carer may help you make a request, but your consent is generally needed when you have the capacity to make the relevant decision. Speak to your healthcare team about support and information-sharing arrangements. Health A-Z : Second opinion+1
10. Can I request a second opinion from a private doctor and then return to the NHS?
You can arrange a private consultation, but any subsequent NHS treatment or referral will be subject to NHS clinical decisions and funding rules. Discuss how private reports or recommendations could be considered by your NHS team before incurring costs.
Conclusion
Getting a second opinion on the NHS can help you better understand a diagnosis, explore treatment alternatives and feel more confident about important healthcare decisions.
Start by speaking openly with your GP or consultant, explaining your concerns and asking whether a further assessment is appropriate. Prepare your medical information, understand the possible waiting time, and seek support from PALS or an advocacy service if you encounter difficulties.
Most importantly, do not delay urgent assessment or necessary treatment without medical advice. A second opinion should support informed decision-making while keeping your health and safety at the centre of your care.
