PLAN THE NEXT STEP
Getting a medical second opinion
Choose an NHS or private route, prepare the right records and understand what happens after another specialist reviews your care.
Where should I start with a second opinion?
Decide what you want reviewed, then ask your current team or a suitable private specialist about the route, records and report. Keep responsibility for your ongoing care clear.
6 practical guides, with official sources and links to related costs and services.
How to ask for an NHS second opinion
Start by asking your GP or current specialist to discuss another opinion and the appropriate referral route. Explain the question you want answered; a further NHS referral is not an automatic entitlement to any specialist or treatment you choose.
Read guide →Private second opinions: records, fees and reports
You normally need a clear question, relevant medical records and a confirmed quote. Establish whether the fee buys a written records review, an appointment, or both; tests and ongoing treatment may be separate.
Read guide →A second opinion before planned surgery
You can ask for another opinion on the need for planned surgery, the proposed technique or non-surgical alternatives. Agree the timing with your current team, particularly if delaying treatment could affect your health.
Read guide →Getting a second opinion about cancer care
Discuss the request with your cancer team or GP and identify what you want reviewed: the diagnosis, tests or treatment options. Check how to arrange it without an unsafe delay to time-sensitive care.
Read guide →A second opinion on scan or test results
Some second-opinion services can review existing images and reports. Ask for the original image files and relevant clinical history: a screenshot or written report alone may not be enough for the review you need.
Read guide →A second opinion about mental health care
Raise the request with your mental health professional, GP or care coordinator. Explain whether the question concerns diagnosis, medication or treatment, and agree how ongoing support will continue during any review.
Read guide →From a choice to a care plan
Treatment options and decision guides
Understand the choices to discuss with your clinician, then connect them to costs, providers and recovery support.
Explore the guides →Getting a medical second opinion
Choose an NHS or private route, prepare the right records and understand what happens after another specialist reviews your care.
Explore the guides →Recovery, rehabilitation and support
Plan the help you may need after treatment: getting home, moving safely, everyday tasks, therapy and care costs.
Explore the guides →