CANCER SECOND OPINION AT HCA UK

Clarity and confidence in your cancer care
  • Access to leading cancer experts
  • Clear guidance for your next steps
  • The latest and most effective treatments
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CANCER SECOND OPINION AT HCA UK

Expert advice to help you make informed decisions about your care

Second opinions can play an important role in your cancer treatment. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed, are considering your treatment plan, or have already started treatment, getting a second opinion can help you feel confident you’re making the right decision about your treatment and care. 

If you choose us for your second opinion, you’ll have a one-to-one consultation with an expert in the type of cancer you’ve been diagnosed with. They’ll carefully review your diagnosis and treatment history, including any existing scans and test results, answer any questions you have, and explain your options clearly at every stage. This may include further tests, exploring alternative treatment options, or confirming that your current plan is right for you – so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

  • 300+cancer experts across HCA UK

  • 1:1 consultant appointmentwith a specialist in your type of cancer

  • 30,000patients trust us with their care*

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CANCER SECOND OPINION AT HCA UK

Choose the path that’s right for you

Whether you’re looking for reassurance about your diagnosis and current treatment plan, considering transferring your care, or are interested in clinical trials, we can help you with your next step.

I have a diagnosis and would like a second opinion

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and would like a second opinion, you can search for a specialist in your type of cancer on our consultant finder and book your one-to-one consultation.

I’m currently in treatment and would like to transfer my care

If you’re already receiving treatment elsewhere and are considering moving your care to HCA Healthcare UK, our medical concierge team can guide you through the process and support you with any questions or transfer enquiries.

I’m interested in clinical trials

If you’d like to learn more about clinical trials, you can visit our clinical trials page for more information. We’re proud to be the only independent provider in the UK to have a dedicated clinical trials unit, making more treatment options available sooner.

CANCER SECOND OPINION AT HCA UK

Is a second opinion right for you?

A second opinion could be right for you if:

  • You have doubts about your diagnosis or do not fully understand your diagnosis
  • You have doubts or questions about your treatment plan
  • You’d like clearer answers or reassurance about your options
  • You’ve been offered more than one treatment and would like help deciding which is best for you
  • You’re interested in clinical trials or emerging therapies
  • You have a rare or complex cancer diagnosis
  • You’d prefer a different consultant to lead your care
  • You’ve been told there are no further treatment options available
  • Your cancer has returned following treatment

It’s important that you feel informed and involved in any decisions about your treatment. Second opinions are a normal part of cancer care, don’t worry about offending your consultant – your current team may even recommended another specialist for you to contact.

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CANCER SECOND OPINION AT HCA UK

Where can I get a second opinion?

Our cancer specialists provide second opinion consultations at multiple locations across our network of hospitals and clinics. 

The main centres are shown below, and where appropriate, appointments at other clinics may also be available when you book.

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The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
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The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road SW1W 8RH London
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HCA Healthcare UK at University College Hospital

Grafton Way Building 1 Grafton Way WC1E 6AG London
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London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
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Leaders in Oncology Care

95-97 Harley Street W1G 6AF London
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The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place St John's Wood NW8 9LE London
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The Christie Private Care

Wilmslow Road M20 4BX Manchester
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The Wilmslow Hospital

52-54 Alderley Road Wilmslow SK9 1NY Cheshire
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The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London

Accessing private healthcare

Self-pay

You don’t need health insurance to access a cancer second opinion. If you choose to self-fund, the cost of your initial appointment will depend on your choice of consultant. 

If you need any further tests, our team will explain what’s involved and provide a clear, transparent estimate based on your needs, so you can make an informed decision before going ahead.

Cancer second opinion FAQs

At HCA Healthcare UK, your cancer second opinion will take the form of a one-to-one consultation with a consultant who is a specialist in your type of cancer. They will review your existing scans, test results and treatment history, and discuss your diagnosis and options with you. They’ll also be able to answer any questions you may have at that stage. 

Your consultant may recommend further investigations, suggest alternative approaches, or confirm that your current treatment plan is right for you. The aim is to give you the clarity and insights you need to support your decision-making.

You don’t always need a referral to book a second opinion consultation. If you’re self-funding, you can usually contact us directly to arrange an appointment. If you’re using private medical insurance, your insurer may require a referral letter from a GP or consultant, and they will provide an authorisation code before your consultation can go ahead. 

Our team can help guide you through the process.

Yes, you can. You can ask for a second opinion at any stage of your diagnosis or treatment, even if you’ve already started treatment elsewhere. 

Your consultant will review what treatment you’ve had so far, explain your current options and help you understand whether your treatment plan is the most appropriate for you, or if there are alternatives worth considering.

Seeking a second opinion is a completely routine part of cancer care. Consultants understand the value of getting reassurance or additional expert input, and some may even suggest another specialist for you to speak to. Your care team’s priority is supporting you to make informed decisions about your treatment.

Your consultant will usually need access to relevant medical information such as scan reports, test results, pathology reports and details of any treatment you’ve received so far. 

We can advise you on what’s needed and help guide you through gathering this information ahead of your appointment.

A second opinion does not commit you to transferring your care. Many people seek a second opinion simply to gain reassurance or clarity before deciding on their next steps. 

After your consultation, you’re free to continue your treatment with your existing team or explore care at HCA Healthcare UK. The choice is entirely yours.

I would encourage anyone who was in my situation to seek a second opinion. With most things in life, you do your research and don't necessarily pick the first option available — medical care shouldn't be an exception. I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for Mr Nair and his willingness to investigate all of the treatment options.

Ruth
HCA UK patient

*2025 patient volumes