Second Opinion on a Diagnosis (When and How Do I Get a Second Opinion?)

A second opinion on a diagnosis is an assessment by a second, independent specialist regarding a diagnosis your child has already received. The original doctor or psychotherapist remains involved throughout the process. The goal is to get a perspective from someone who is looking at the case with fresh eyes and without any preconceived notions.

For mental health issues such as ADHD, an eating disorder, or an anxiety disorder, a diagnosis is often reached over the course of several appointments. A second opinion can help if you’re unsure whether the diagnosis is accurate or if important observations from everyday life were overlooked. When a diagnosis is unclear, it often gives parents the basis they need to make further decisions.

Not every diagnosis needs to be reviewed. However, there are situations in which a second opinion provides reassurance:

• The diagnosis was made after a very brief appointment, without detailed discussions or testing.
• An invasive treatment is scheduled, such as medication or hospitalization.
• Your own observations from everyday family life do not align with the diagnosis.
• Different specialists are giving conflicting advice.
• You have many unanswered questions after the appointment and feel like you’re on your own.

The shock of a diagnosis can temporarily cloud your thinking. In such a situation, a second specialist can calmly reassess the facts and take the time to answer your questions.

In Germany, you have the freedom to choose your doctor. You may consult another doctor at any time. This right is enshrined in the Charter of Patients’ Rights issued by the Federal Ministry of Health.

For 13 specific elective surgeries, there is also a structured second-opinion procedure under Section 27b of SGB V, such as before a tonsillectomy or joint replacement. This special procedure does not apply to mental health or developmental diagnoses. Nevertheless, statutory health insurance generally covers the costs if you consult a second specialist for a second opinion.

Important to know when switching providers: You have the right to view your child’s medical records and receive copies of them. This includes findings, test results, and reports. If a practice refuses to provide them, it must justify its decision.

You can take your time to arrange for a second opinion. This step-by-step approach has proven effective:

• Gather documents: Ask the first practice for copies of all test results, questionnaires, and doctors’ letters. This saves the second specialist from having to repeat examinations.
• Clarify the referral: For specialists, such as those in child and adolescent psychiatry, a referral from the pediatrician’s office is often required. Ask them directly.
• Find an appointment: Use the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians’ doctor search at arztsuche.116117.de to find suitable practices near you.
• Write down your questions: Make a note in advance of exactly what you want to clarify.

The wait for an appointment can be stressful, especially in child and adolescent psychiatry. The first practice shouldn’t take this step as a criticism. A second opinion from a colleague is standard practice in the medical field and ultimately benefits the child.

If you’re torn between two opinions or aren’t sure what to do next, an impartial organization can help. The Independent Patient Counseling Foundation of Germany (Stiftung Unabhängige Patientenberatung Deutschland) offers free and independent counseling by phone at 0800 011 77 22, at counseling centers, and online. It explains medical findings, patient rights, and how to navigate the healthcare system.

Rückenwind It supports you through this phase with parent coaching, helps you organize your questions, and empowers you in your interactions with healthcare professionals. How to explain a diagnosis to your child is a topic in its own right. The diagnosis itself—and its confirmation or correction—can only be made by a child and adolescent psychiatrist or a medical or psychotherapeutic specialist.