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How do I ask for a second opinion?

Author

Jessica Burns

Published Mar 07, 2026

How Do You Ask for A Second Opinion?

  1. Explain to your doctor that you want to be fully informed about your diagnosis, prognosis and available treatment options and would like a second opinion.
  2. Ask your doctor to recommend someone else.
  3. If you have a specific doctor in mind, ask for a referral to them.

When can a person request a second opinion?

Generally, a second opinion must be authorized or provided upon request in an “expeditious” or speedy manner — in certain circumstances, within 72 hours.

How do I get a second medical opinion?

How to get a second opinion

  1. Ask your GP. Your GP will be able to refer you for a second opinion, either on the NHS or privately.
  2. Ask your current consultant. For funding reasons, your current consultant may not be able to refer you to some specialists.
  3. Family or carers can ask you.

Will my doctor know if I get a second opinion?

WebMD: Should you always tell your doctor if you’re seeking a second opinion? Groopman: Absolutely. One, you need all the medical records and any pathology slides or other test results to give to whoever is giving the second opinion.

What do I do if I want a second opinion?

The process of seeking a second opinion can be as simple as getting a referral from your current doctor and making sure your health insurance will pay for it. You will need to gather any biopsy or surgery reports, hospital discharge reports, relevant imaging tests, and information on drugs or supplements you take.

What to do if someone asks for a second opinion?

If someone requests a second opinion on your behalf, they should have all the information about your illness or condition, and check they understand it thoroughly. Sometimes a GP or consultant may ask a colleague to provide a second opinion.

How to request a remote second opinion from MSK Doctor?

The first step in requesting a remote second opinion from an MSK doctor is to submit an online appointment request form. Select “Appointments for New Patients” if you are the patient or their caregiver or family member. Select “Refer a Patient” if you are a clinician requesting a review for your patient.

Where to go for a remote second opinion?

If you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency service or go to your nearest hospital or urgent care center. To offer the most comprehensive opinion possible, MSK remote second opinion brings together a team of experts. This includes specialists from pathology, radiology, and oncology.

How do I get a second opinion after seeing my GP?

If you would like a second opinion after seeing a consultant (a senior medical doctor who specialises in a particular field of medicine), you need to go back to your GP and ask them to refer you again. If your GP agrees to refer you to a new consultant, the consultant will be told that this is your second opinion.