Expert second opinion for more certainty

A second doctor’s opinion helps you take well-informed decisions regarding planned medical procedures. That’s why our HOSPITAL Semi-Private and Private hospital insurance policies offer you an expert second opinion.

When is it useful to seek a second medical opinion?

For major operations, radiotherapy or other treatments with increased risks, a second medical opinion is advisable. With HOSPITAL Semi-Private and Private supplementary insurance, you get direct access to renowned professors.

More information about HOSPITAL Semi-Private More information about HOSPITAL Private

What’s the process for getting an expert second opinion at Helsana?

The expert second opinion includes the right to fast access to a specialist in the required speciality. Helsana chooses the experts itself. You are not entitled to be treated by a specific doctor. The list of experts does not represent an offer, and Helsana may amend the list at any time.

If you would like to get an expert second opinion, phone us. We will advise you, inform you about the process and contact the hospital for you.

Expert second opinion
058 340 13 40Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. (Swiss fixed network local rate / mobile rates according to provider)

Expert second opinion in the event of illness

There are several treatments for almost every illness, and each has different advantages and disadvantages. A neutral second medical opinion gives you more certainty and enables you to make well-informed decisions.

In giving their second opinion, the expert judges both whether the proposed therapy represents state-of-the-art medicine and whether it suits your needs. All doctors on our list of experts are leading Swiss experts in their field.

Expert second opinion after an accident

Even for serious injuries, there are different treatment plans to consider. What are the reasons for and against an operation? What are the alternatives? Medical advice provided by a second doctor gives you clarity. 

The Trauma Surgery Clinic at the University Hospital Zurich is the leading Swiss trauma centre specialised in treating complex injuries. State-of-the-art technology and close cooperation with other speciality clinics ensure that patients receive holistic care and the highest level of support.

Can I request a second opinion if I don’t have supplementary insurance?

You can get a second doctor’s opinion before an inpatient procedure, even if you don’t have supplementary insurance. However, not having supplementary insurance means you don’t get direct access to proven experts in the relevant specialist field – unlike with an expert second opinion. You have to find and contact an expert yourself.

You can also use BetterDoc free of charge if you have taken out an alternative basic insurance model. This service helps you find the right specialist.

More about BetterDoc

Depending on which basic insurance model you choose, you may not be able to go directly to a specialist. For example, if you have BeneFit PLUS General Practitioner insurance, your own GP is who you should always go to first.

Good to know

  • Let your doctor know that you would like to get a second doctor’s opinion. This avoids any misunderstandings.
  • Send all the documents to the doctor giving the second opinion in advance.
  • Make a note of what you are unclear and uncertain about.
  • If possible, get somebody to go with you to the second doctor.
  • If a medical procedure is not necessarily urgent, allow yourself enough time to make a decision. Don’t let yourself be put under pressure.

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