Child

Second Opinion

• Everyone has the right to be given the best possible care. If you have any concerns about the care or treatment your child is receiving, you may want to get a second opinion.

  Why ask for a second opinion?

  Reasons for asking for a second opinion include:
  • Wanting another cardiologist to confirm the initial diagnosis
  • Wanting another cardiologist’s opinion on your child’s treatment
  • Having an operation by a surgeon who works at a different unit
  • Having concerns about some aspect of the care or treatment your child is currently receiving

  

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  Your right to a second opinion:

  Whatever your reason, the NHS entitles you to ask for a second opinion. In Leeds we have no problem at all with you seeking a second opinion.

  Indeed, you will sometimes find that your cardiologist or surgeon will want to seek a second opinion on your behalf, particularly if your child’s case is especially complicated.

• How to get a second opinion

  There are two main routes for getting a second opinion:
  • Ask your GP to arrange an appointment with a cardiologist at a different congenital cardiac unit. Your GP will then contact the centre to arrange for up to date information about your child’s care.
  • Ask your cardiologist. The cardiologists will be happy to help you get a second opinion and will often suggest another cardiologist you can see.

  Please do not feel uncomfortable talking to us about this subject. The most important thing is to make sure your child is getting the best possible care. Please make sure that the cardiologist or surgeon you are planning to see is from another specialist congenital heart disease unit in England. We are happy to give you advice regarding this.

  For more information, or any advice, please contact the Paediatric Congenital Nurse Specialists at Leeds General Infirmary on 0113 3925467.