What Is a Second Medical Opinion

A second medical opinion is an opinion or finding by a doctor who is not the patient's primary care physician. A second opinion examines the patient's medical records and gives an opinion about the patient's health problem and its treatment. A second medical opinion may confirm or question the first physician's diagnosis and treatment plan, provide additional information about the patient's disease or condition, and suggest other treatment options. A second medical opinion can be given online or in-person (depending on the situation).