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Your rights

Getting a second opinion: how and when

Unsure about a diagnosis or treatment? You have the right to have another doctor look at your case. It’s called a second opinion, and it’s usually covered by your basic insurance.

What is a second opinion?

A second opinion is an assessment of your diagnosis or treatment plan by a doctor other than your own. You’re not asking for treatment, just a second view. Afterwards you usually return to your own doctor to decide together. Your current doctor should cooperate and share your medical file.

When is a second opinion useful?

A second view can bring calm and clarity, especially for major decisions. Consider it when:

  • You doubt the diagnosis or the proposed treatment plan.
  • It involves major or irreversible surgery.
  • Your symptoms aren’t improving with the current treatment.
  • The wait is long and you want to explore your options.

How to request a second opinion

  1. 1

    Discuss it with your doctor

    Say openly that you’d like a second opinion. A good doctor sees this as normal and cooperates.

  2. 2

    Ask for a referral and your file

    You usually need a referral for reimbursement. Also request your medical file so the second doctor has everything.

  3. 3

    Choose a different provider

    Preferably choose another hospital or specialist, so you get a truly independent view.

  4. 4

    Discuss the outcome with your own doctor

    With the second opinion in hand, you decide the next steps together with your doctor.

Compare providers per specialty

Looking for another specialist for your second opinion? Compare hospitals per specialty:

Waiting times OrthopedieWaiting times OogheelkundeWaiting times CardiologieWaiting times DermatologieWaiting times NeurologieWaiting times GynaecologieWaiting times UrologieWaiting times Plastische chirurgie

Frequently asked questions

Is a second opinion reimbursed?
Usually yes, from the basic insurance, provided it’s medically reasonable and you have a referral. Check with your insurer beforehand.
Can my doctor refuse a second opinion?
No, your doctor should cooperate with your request and share your medical file. You have the right to a second opinion.
Do I have to switch to the second doctor?
No. A second opinion is only a second assessment. You usually return to your own doctor afterwards.
Can a second opinion help me faster?
Sometimes. Another hospital may have a shorter wait or a different treatment plan. Compare the waiting times to find out.

Read more

Wait too long? What you can doAll your options when the wait is too long.Waitlist mediationYour insurer finds a faster provider, for free.What is the treeknorm?The maximum acceptable waiting time, explained.GP referral explainedWhen you need a referral — and whether you can choose.The deductible explainedWhat counts towards it, and what it means for hospital care.Switching health insuranceWhen switching pays off with long waits, and how.
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