If you want to request a second opinion about your GP’s or your specialist’s diagnosis and/or your treatment, you can follow these steps:
Share your concerns with your GP. Explain why you’re uncertain about the diagnosis or treatment plan you’ve been given and ask for their advice on getting a second opinion.
If after speaking with your GP you still feel the need for a second opinion, request a referral to another GP or specialist. Your GP should be understanding and willing to support your request.
You can ask to see another GP at your practice if that is available. This can often be arranged more quickly than seeing a specialist.
If your condition needs specialist input, your GP can refer you to a second specialist in a hospital or clinic. You may have to wait, given NHS waiting times.
If you’re concerned about waiting times, or want a faster process, you could opt to see a private GP or specialist. This would involve paying for the consultation, but it can sometimes provide quicker access to a second opinion. You can ask your GP for a referral to a private specialist, or you can consult a private GP directly without a referral.
If you’re being referred to another GP or specialist, you may need copies of your medical records, including test results, imaging, and notes from your GP. You have the right to access your medical records, and your GP or the practice manager should be able to let you know how to request them. It may take up to 28 days for your medical records to be made available to you.