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.
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 — e.g. "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–£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.
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.