MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE

How to ask for an NHS second opinion

Prepare a focused request and keep your current team involved.

How do I get 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.

Sources checked 10 September 2026 · England · Use this to prepare a discussion with your healthcare professional.

Put the next steps in place

Start with the unresolved question

Explain whether you want the diagnosis checked, help choosing between treatments or a review of a result. Sometimes a fuller explanation from your current team resolves the uncertainty; if it does not, ask how another specialist can review it.

Ask about the referral and timing

Confirm who will send the referral, what records go with it and whether waiting for the review would affect planned care. Do not stop medicines or cancel treatment without discussing the implications with your treating team.

If arranging a referral is difficult

Ask for the reason, discuss alternatives with your GP and contact the hospital’s patient advice service if you need help understanding the process. Local access and commissioning arrangements still apply.

Your appointment and planning checklist

0 of 4 checked

Can we write down the question I want the second specialist to answer?
Who will send the referral and records?
What should happen with my current treatment while I wait?
Who will discuss the second report with me?

Tick off questions as you prepare. Your ticks stay on this page and are cleared when you leave or reload.

Connect the plan to costs and services

Compare the correct procedure or service, then check the provider’s current offer, referral route and practical arrangements.

Medical second opinions costs

Second Opinion Medic lists a fee of £599 for general medical review: advanced.

Fees, funding and cost planner →

Private consultant appointments costs

Benenden Hospital lists a fee of £226 for back and spine consultation.

Fees, funding and cost planner →

Find hospitals Referral and funding routes

Confirm that the named service provides the particular therapy or treatment you need. Historical evidence does not establish a current place or appointment.

Sources and coverage

Prepared from the sources below, checked on 10 September 2026. This is general decision and practical planning information. The linked clinical guidance and your treating team provide the detail needed for your care.