A second opinion means asking a seconddoctor to review your symptoms or treatment. You do this if you have doubts about what your first doctor says. A second opinion like this can help you get a better understanding of your situation.
In the Netherlands, you can choose which doctor to see. This is required by law. However, whether you can actually choose any doctor depends on your health insurance plan. Your health insurer will usually only reimburse the costs if you first get a referralfrom your primary care physician.
How do you request a second opinion?
If you want a second opinion, ask your own doctor. They should usually be able to help you with a referral. However, the second doctor must be someone who has not been involved in your treatment so far. Your doctor may refuse only in special cases, such as if you have already asked for a second opinion several times for the same problem.
Please note: The doctor providing the second opinion will not take over your treatment. You will discuss that doctor’s advice with your own doctor.
Second opinion from the company physician
Since July 2017, you’ve also been able to request a second opinion from an occupational physician. This is a doctor who specializes in workplace health. If you have doubts about your occupational physician’s advice, you may ask for a second opinion from another occupational physician. You can arrange this through your own occupational physician, who usually has to give their approval.
The company doctor may also suggest bringing in another professional, for example, if he or she doesn’t know enough about your condition. You can then decide for yourself whether you want that. Please note: this is not the same as an expert assessment by the UWV. That assessment addresses other questions, such as whether you are able to return to work.
Is a second opinion covered?
A second opinion is covered by basic health insurance, but it is subject to your deductible. Some insurers only cover one second opinion per year. Be sure to check with your health insurer in advance. A second opinion from an occupational physician is usually paid for by your employer.
