When and How to Get a Second Opinion
HSChange Editorial Team
Health Policy Research Team, Consumer Health Guidance
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MD, MPH, Board-Certified Internal Medicine
Last updated: April 4, 2026
A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that second opinions changed the diagnosis 21% of the time and refined it an additional 66% of the time. That means 88% of second opinions gave the patient new or better information. An estimated 12 million Americans experience a diagnostic error in outpatient settings every year. Getting a second opinion isn't insulting your doctor. It's making a better decision.
When to Get One
Before any major surgery. After a diagnosis of cancer or another serious condition. If a treatment plan feels excessive or doesn't match what you've read. If the diagnosis is uncertain and your doctor acknowledges they're not sure. If you're told you need a procedure but want to explore alternatives first. AHRQ recommends seeking a second opinion in all of these situations.
How to Get One
Ask your current doctor for a referral to another specialist. If that feels awkward, find one yourself through your insurance directory, a teaching hospital, or CMS Care Compare. Request your medical records (imaging, lab results, pathology reports) be sent to the new doctor before your appointment. You're legally entitled to copies of your records.
Insurance Coverage
Medicare Part B covers second surgical opinions. If the second opinion disagrees with the first, Medicare pays for a third. Most private insurance plans also cover second opinions, though you may need to use an in-network provider. Check with your insurer. Telehealth second opinion services have expanded since 2020, making it possible to get an expert opinion without traveling to another city.