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Emergency

Unsure before surgery? Your right to a medical second opinion

A recommended operation is an important decision, and you do not have to accept it unchecked. For certain elective procedures you even have a statutory right to an independent second opinion, which the health insurer pays for.

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Your chances of getting your money back

For certain elective procedures (for example tonsil, uterus, shoulder or knee operations) you are entitled to an independent medical second opinion (§ 27b SGB V). The treating doctor must point this out to you in good time.
Independently of this, you can always see another doctor of your choice. A second opinion can avoid unnecessary procedures and gives you certainty for the decision.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Demand notice

    Ask your doctor whether the second-opinion procedure applies to the planned procedure; they must point it out to you.

  2. 2

    2. Find a second-opinion doctor

    You can find suitable second-opinion doctors, for example, via the appointment service center (116117) or your health insurer.

  3. 3

    3. Bring your records

    Have your findings handed over so that unnecessary duplicate examinations are avoided.

  4. 4

    4. Decide at your own pace

    Weigh both assessments; for an elective procedure you are allowed to take your time.

Frequently asked questions

Am I entitled to a medical second opinion?

For certain elective procedures, yes: the structured second-opinion procedure under § 27b SGB V gives you a right to an independent second opinion that the health insurer bears. The doctor who recommends the procedure must point it out to you in good time. Independently of this, you may see another doctor anyway.

Does the second opinion cost me anything?

Within the statutory second-opinion procedure, the health insurer covers the costs. Have your findings handed over and use the appointment service center (116117) or your insurer's guidance to find a suitable independent doctor. This way you avoid unnecessary duplicate examinations.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.