Getting a second opinion

In the past, doctors had to worry about how the cost of a second opinion would be covered. This should not be a problem now as the cost is usually met by the Primary Care Trust in your area. A small number of doctors might be offended by a request for a second opinion, but this is not common. If you have already had a number of second opinions in the past, then you may be told that a further opinion is not necessary.

If your doctor refuses, you could try putting your request in writing as it is less easy for a letter to be ignored. Download a draft letter to help you do this

• If the consultant psychiatrist disagrees even after sending your letter, ask your GP instead (or vice versa).
• If both doctors refuse, try discussing your situation with your local Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) – your local hospital and GP surgery will have details of these.
• Some people have found it very effective to get a solicitor to write to the Trust.
• You could also contact the Rethink National Advice Service for help on 020 8 974 6814 (open Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm), write to Rethink Advice, 28 Castle Street, Kingston upon Thames, SURREY KT1 1SS or e-mail advice@rethink.org .
• If you still get no success, you may wish to use the NHS complaints procedure; see how to make a complaint .

See Rethink's second opinion factsheet

To find a second opinion doctor, contact the Rethink National Advice Service – they have a list of consultant psychiatrists who are willing to do independent second opinions. Amongst these is the Maudsley Second Opinion Service in London. They can see people from anywhere in the country, whether you are an in or out patient at the time, as long as you are willing to travel. You can contact them by writing to: Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AZ, ‘phoning 020 8776 4418 or through their website:

http://www.slam.nhs.uk/services/pages/detail.asp?id=600

If you do not feel confident about writing to your doctor or talking to them about the guidelines, you could find an advocate who will represent you. Advocates work with their clients to ensure that their client’s voice is heard. Acting at their client’s instruction, they can either speak on a client’s behalf or support the client whilst they speak for themselves.

To find an advocate, contact the Rethink National Advice Service by phone on 020 8 974 6814 (open Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm), write to Rethink Advice, 28 Castle Street, Kingston upon Thames, SURREY KT1 1SS or e-mail advice@rethink.org . Alternatively speak to your local Community Mental Health Team.

Also the Office of the Public Guardian has published Making decisions - IMC Advocates .