CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
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*
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
I’m currently in treatment and would like to transfer my care
I’m interested in clinical trials
A second opinion could be right for you if:
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.
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.
Accessing private healthcare
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.
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.”
*2025 patient volumes