Tuesday 06 February 2024
Susan Long – Maggie's
You and your family may be worried about your diagnosis and treatment plan. You might be wondering if there are other options to consider that you haven't been offered.
There is not a legal ‘right’ to having a second opinion, but most healthcare professionals will support your choice.
This page will tell you more about asking for a second opinion and how ҹɫֱ²¥ can help.
There may be different ways to treat your type of cancer but not all of them will be suitable for you.
The treatment plan you are offered will be the result of complex discussions by many different types of healthcare professionals involved in your care, not of all whom you will meet.
If you’re being seen within the NHS your treatment plan will be based on discussions from a specialist team called a multidisciplinary team (MDT).
Many private doctors will also consult colleagues before offering treatment.
Your specialist doctor and nurse will discuss the treatment plan being offered and give you the chance to ask any questions.
There can be a number of reasons why you might want a second opinion:
Before asking for a second opinion, you may find it helpful to ask for another appointment with your healthcare team to talk things over.
This will give you a chance to raise questions and talk about what's worrying you.
Before asking for a second opinion it can be helpful to think about the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
If you’d like a second opinion from another GP, you can ask to see someone else in the same practice.
If you want to change GP practices you will need to re-register elsewhere.
Ideally you would talk to your consultant about your concerns and they can arrange for you to see someone else.
You can also ask your GP to refer you to another consultant.
Your family can ask for a second opinion on your behalf, but they must have your consent.
Wondering about a second opinion can be stressful.
You may worry about offending your current healthcare team. Most doctors and nurses fully understand why you might want a second opinion, and will be supportive.
Our Cancer Support Specialists can help you plan conversations with your healthcare team. They are here to listen to your concerns and find the help you need:
Last review: Oct 2021 | Next review: Oct 2022
How to take things forward if you are not happy with your care or treatment.
From Cancer Research Uk (Cruk)
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Find out more about your rights as an NHS patient including seeking second opinions and access to doctors.
From Citizens Advice
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Information about how to get a second opinion and where to go if you are having problems getting one.
From Macmillan Cancer Support
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
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