Your rights
There is no absolute legal right to a second opinion in NHS law, but NHS guidance is clear: patients who request a second opinion should be offered one where possible. The NHS Constitution says you have the right to make choices about your care.
A second opinion can be:
- From a different GP at the same practice.
- From a different specialist at the same hospital.
- From a completely different hospital or specialist team.
The purpose is not to shop for the answer you want. It is to confirm a diagnosis, explore alternatives, or resolve a genuine disagreement about treatment.
Get the GP letter
Our assessment turns your notes into a formatted GP letter that cites NHS guidance and the reliability test.
Same-practice second opinion
The simplest and fastest route:
- Call the practice and ask for an appointment with a different GP.
- You do not need to give a reason. If reception asks, say: "I would like a second opinion on a recent diagnosis or treatment plan."
- Bring your symptom diary, test results, and a short written summary of your concerns.
- If the practice tries to insist you see the same GP, ask to speak to the practice manager.
Specialist second opinion
If your concern is with a hospital specialist:
- Ask your GP for referral to a different specialist or hospital.
- Explain clearly why you want the second opinion, for example: "I do not feel my symptoms have been fully investigated" or "I would like confirmation of the diagnosis before starting this treatment."
- Your GP should respect this unless there is a specific clinical reason not to.
Using Right to Choose
In England, Right to Choose lets you pick any NHS-funded provider for your first outpatient appointment. This includes getting a second opinion from a different hospital or specialist team. Your GP must process the referral.
Private second opinions
If NHS routes are slow or blocked, private second opinions are available:
- Many private hospitals offer standalone second opinion services.
- Costs range from £200 to £500 for a consultation, plus any tests.
- You can ask the private specialist to write to your NHS GP with their view, though your GP is not obliged to follow it.
If your request is refused
If your GP or practice refuses a second opinion without a clear clinical reason:
- Ask for the refusal in writing.
- Request a meeting with the practice manager.
- File a Stage 1 complaint if the refusal is unreasonable.
- Contact your Integrated Care Board (ICB) if the practice will not engage.
Get the GP letter
Our assessment turns your notes into a formatted GP letter that cites NHS guidance and the reliability test.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have a legal right to a second opinion on the NHS?
You do not have an absolute legal right to a second opinion, but NHS guidance says you should be offered one if you request it. A GP or hospital refusing without a clear clinical reason can be challenged through the practice or trust complaints process.
Can I ask for a second opinion from a different GP at the same practice?
Yes. You can ask to see a different GP at the same practice for a fresh view on your diagnosis or treatment. You do not need to give a reason. If the practice refuses, ask for this in writing and escalate to the practice manager.
Can I get a second opinion from a different hospital or specialist?
Yes. You can ask your GP to refer you to a different specialist or hospital for a second opinion. If your GP refuses, you can use Right to Choose in England to pick any NHS-funded provider.
Will a second opinion affect my relationship with my current doctor?
No. Second opinions are a normal part of NHS care. Doctors are used to patients seeking confirmation or alternatives, especially for serious or complex conditions.
Is a second opinion free on the NHS?
Yes. A second opinion through the NHS is free at the point of care. If you go private for a second opinion, you will pay for the consultation and any tests.