Give patients a right to receive a medical second opinion

Background

We call on the Government to introduce legislation giving patients a clear legal right to receive a second medical opinion within the NHS, without fear of refusal, delay, or negative impact on their ongoing care.

Additional details

Patients may be told they can request a second opinion, but this is often refused without explanation as they currently do not have a legal right to receive one. This leaves people—especially those with rare, complex or life-limiting conditions—at risk of misdiagnosis and delayed care. A legal right would improve patient safety, reduce bias, support earlier diagnosis, empower patients, and increase transparency and trust within the NHS.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.