How Do I Get a Second Medical Opinion?

When is a second opinion valuable?

A second opinion is particularly worthwhile before:

• Elective surgery — especially if the procedure is irreversible or has significant risks
• Cancer treatment decisions — where different oncologists may recommend different protocols
• Chronic condition management — when your current treatment is not working or has strong side effects
• Any diagnosis that feels uncertain or that you want confirmed
• Expensive treatments that require a Kostengutsprache

There is no minimum severity threshold. You can seek a second opinion for any medical question.

How to get a second opinion

Step 1: Decide on your approach

Depending on your insurance model, the process differs slightly:

• Standard model (freie Arztwahl): You can go directly to any specialist without a referral
• Hausarzt model: Ask your GP for a referral to another specialist. Your GP cannot refuse a reasonable request for a second opinion
• Telmed/HMO model: Call the telephone hotline first, or get your GP referral through the prescribed channel

Step 2: Request your medical records

You have an absolute right to your complete medical records (Patientendossier). Ask your current doctor to provide:

• Diagnostic reports and test results
• Imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans)
• Treatment history and medication lists
• The doctor's notes and assessment

No doctor can refuse to share your records. They may charge a reasonable copying fee, but they cannot withhold the information. Under Swiss law, these records belong to you.

Step 3: Choose a second doctor

Ideally, choose a specialist in the same field but at a different practice or hospital. University hospitals (Universitätsspitäler) often have dedicated second opinion services, particularly for oncology and complex surgical cases.

Step 4: Attend the consultation

Bring your complete records. The second doctor will review your case and may:

• Confirm the original diagnosis and treatment plan
• Suggest modifications to the approach
• Recommend additional tests before deciding
• Propose a completely different treatment

Who pays for a second opinion?

KVG covers a second opinion consultation like any other specialist visit. Your normal Franchise and Selbstbehalt apply. There is no special surcharge for seeking a second opinion.

However, a second opinion obtained abroad may not be covered by KVG. If you want an international opinion, check with your insurer first.

Can my doctor refuse?

No. Your doctor cannot refuse to:

• Share your medical records
• Refer you to another specialist (in gated models)
• Continue treating you after you have sought a second opinion

If a doctor discourages you from seeking a second opinion or refuses to hand over your records, this is a red flag. You can contact the cantonal patient ombudsman (Patientenombudsperson) for free mediation.