What is a second opinion?
In a medical second opinion, a second doctor assesses your findings and the recommended treatment. It helps you to understand diagnosis and therapy transparently and comprehensively – especially in the case of serious or chronic problems, unclear findings or if you have doubts about an initial assessment.
Many doctors even explicitly recommend this step. A second opinion is intended to strengthen the trust between you and your treating doctor, not to replace it.
Does everything have to be examined again?
In most cases, no. You are entitled to all documents and examination results from your previous treatment – this right is laid down in patients' rights. Bring these documents with you to the consultation.
When does a second opinion make sense?
A second opinion makes sense above all when it comes from an experienced specialist. I offer second opinions in my specialist fields – especially on hernias, reflux and hiatal hernia, gallstones, diseases of the colon and haemorrhoids.