If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, thymoma, or oligometastatic disease, getting expert confirmation can provide clarity and confidence. I provide fast, specialist second opinions, ensuring you have an accurate diagnosis and the very best treatment plan, giving you peace of mind and ensure you're on the right treatment path.
Share your medical records and test results before your appointment
Step 3
Choose between a virtual or face-to-face consultation
Step 4
Receive a comprehensive assessment and clear recommendations
Accessing specialist advice shouldn't require complex pathways. You can contact me directly for a second opinion without needing a GP referral. This straightforward approach ensures you receive expert assessment quickly and efficiently when you need it most.
Many patients ask how to get a second opinion on cancer after their initial diagnosis or how to get a second opinion privately.
I understand the urgency of cancer decisions, which is why I offer appointments within days rather than weeks.
What is a second opinion?
A second opinion is consulting another specialist to gain additional insights into your cancer diagnosis and treatment options. It doesn't mean you're doubting your current doctor's expertise; rather, you're using all available resources to make the most informed decision about your health.
With over 23 years of experience working in the NHS at leading UK teaching hospitals, I regularly provide second opinions for patients across the UK and internationally. My specialised expertise in lung cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, thymoma, and oligometastatic disease allows me to offer valuable insights into complex cases. I offer stereotactic radiotherapy (a pinpoint-accurate type of radiation therapy) for metastatic disease for any cancer type (e.g. lung cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, kidney cancer).
Meet our clinical lead
Dr. James Wilson, MBBS (Hons with Distinction), DPhil, is a Member of the Royal College of Physicians and a Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists.
Should you get a second opinion for cancer? For most patients facing significant treatment decisions, consulting with a different doctor provides valuable reassurance and clarity. As an independent second doctor, here's what my cancer second opinion service offers:
I provide a comprehensive understanding of your diagnosis and all available treatment options. My expertise may reveal approaches that haven't been previously considered, particularly with emerging therapies and clinical trials.
Confidence in your decision
Knowing you've explored all options gives you the peace of mind that you're making the best choice for your health. Many patients find that a second opinion simply confirms their current treatment decision, providing valuable reassurance.
Access to advanced treatments
As a specialist in cutting-edge cancer treatments, I may be able to offer a different treatment option. I have access to therapies that aren't widely available elsewhere, including stereotactic radiotherapy, proton beam therapy, immunotherapies, and precision medicine approaches. I can offer treatment at the best cancer centre for your personal situation.
Clarity and understanding
I take time to explain complex medical information in clear, accessible terms. You'll leave with a thorough understanding of your condition and treatment options, empowering you to participate confidently in decisions about your oncology care. I often see patients who have had lung cancer screening and want understand more about their results.
How to get a second opinion on cancer treatment
When seeking a second opinion on cancer treatment, preparation helps ensure you gain maximum benefit from the consultation. Here's how to make the most of your appointment:
Step 1
Before your appointment
Consider your specific questions and concerns. As a cancer specialist there is nothing I haven't been asked before. I'll always give you an honest answer. Gather your medical records, including scan reports, biopsy results, and treatment recommendations. This will help you get the most out of your second opinion appointment. While not essential, you might find it helpful to inform your current medical team that you're seeking another perspective.
Step 2
During your second opinion appointment
Feel free to bring someone with you to help absorb information and ask questions. I encourage recording our discussion (with consent) so you can revisit the information later. Don't hesitate to ask questions—there are no "silly" questions when it comes to your health.
Step 3
After your assessment
I'll provide a detailed report outlining my assessment and recommendations. This document is yours to share with your current medical team if you wish. My team remains available to answer any follow-up questions that arise.
How much does a second opinion cost?
How much does it cost to get a second opinion? I offer two service options. Both options provide exceptional value for the peace of mind and clarity they deliver at this critical time.
This includes a comprehensive review of your medical records, cancer journey so far, and a detailed consultation to discuss your diagnosis and treatment options.
Complete Second Opinion Package: £600
This enhanced service includes an initial consultation, presentation of your case at a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting at a leading London private cancer centre, and a follow-up appointment to discuss the collective expertise and recommendations. At the MDT your case will be discussed with colleagues in surgical oncology, radiology, pathology and appropriate medical specialties to ensure all the different treatment options for you are considered.
Where to get a second opinion for cancer?
I offer flexible appointment options to accommodate your needs and preferences:
Meet in person at any of my private clinic locations in London. These appointments allow for a personal connection and comprehensive discussion.
Virtual consultations
For those unable to travel or who prefer the convenience of remote consultations, I offer secure video appointments. These consultations provide the same expert assessment without the need to travel.
Both options deliver the same high standard of care and attention to your individual needs.
Our Reviews
What people are saying
"Despite the fear of cancer, I have always felt confident and that I am in very safe hands. I feel extremely lucky to have this tenacious and kind Doctor in my life."
A patient under Dr. James Wilson's care for lung cancer
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a second opinion?
The process couldn't be simpler. Many patients ask how to get a second opinion from a doctor—here’s how:
Contact my team through the online booking system
Choose your preferred appointment type (virtual or face-to-face)
Securely share your medical information before your consultation
Attend your consultation, where we’ll discuss your case in detail
Receive a comprehensive written report with my assessment and recommendations
You don’t need a GP referral. Just book directly and we’ll support you every step of the way.
How do you get a second opinion from a doctor in the UK?
How do I get a second opinion? The process couldn't be simpler. Many patients ask how do I get a second opinion from a doctor or how can I get a second opinion - here's the straightforward process:
Contact my team through the online booking system
Select your preferred appointment type (virtual or face-to-face)
Share your medical information securely before your appointment
Attend your consultation where we'll discuss your case in detail
Receive a comprehensive written report with my assessment and recommendations
How do you get a second opinion from a doctor in the UK? While some patients seek referrals through their GP, you can contact me directly through my booking system. How do you get a second opinion? Just follow the simple steps above and my team will guide you through the entire process.
I aim to make accessing expert cancer advice as straightforward and stress-free as possible during what is likely an already challenging time.
When should you get a second opinion for cancer?
When should you get a second opinion on cancer? Consider seeking another perspective if:
You've received a serious or complex diagnosis
Your current treatment isn't delivering the expected results
You're interested in learning about cutting-edge treatment options
You simply want confirmation that you're on the right path
You need more time to discuss and understand your condition
Your medical oncologist or radiation oncologist hasn't answered all of your questions
You're considering a clinical trial and want to know your options
There's no wrong time to seek additional expertise when it comes to cancer care. Many patients find that a second opinion provides valuable reassurance, even when it confirms their current treatment plan.
Am I entitled to a second medical opinion?
Can I ask for a second opinion? Absolutely. Seeking another perspective is a standard part of healthcare, particularly for significant conditions like cancer. No doctor should be offended by your request—in fact, most welcome patients taking an active role in their care.
How do you go about getting a second medical opinion? While the NHS does provide access to second opinions, many patients choose the private route for faster access and more time with a specialist. For those wondering how to get a second medical opinion UK residents can access, the private pathway offers several advantages, including speed, specialist choice, and appointment length.
How to get a second opinion privately is straightforward—simply contact my team directly to arrange an appointment without needing a GP referral. As a private consultant, I can see you quickly and provide the comprehensive assessment you need without lengthy waiting times.
If you're still not sure if a cancer second opinion is right for you, speak with your clinical nurse specialist or Macmillan Cancer Support. I'm sure they'll advise that more information from a trusted expert can only help.
Clinical expertise
As a Consultant Clinical Oncologist (a cancer expert with expertise in clinical oncology and medical oncology) with over 20 years of experience working in the NHS at leading teaching hospitals, I bring extensive experience in treating complex cancer cases. My academic training at Oxford University (DPhil/PhD) focused on personalising cancer treatments, and I completed my clinical training at some of the UK's most prestigious cancer centres.
My qualifications include:
MBBS (Honours with Distinction)
DPhil (PhD) from the University of Oxford
Member of the Royal College of Physicians
Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists
My specialised expertise includes:
Lung cancer
Skin cancer and melanoma
Thymoma and thymic carcinoma
Mesothelioma
Merkel cell carcinoma
Oligometastatic disease
This combination of extensive clinical practice and academic research ensures that my second opinions reflect the very latest in evidence-based cancer care. As your cancer doctor, I don't just offer clinical expertise, I'll be your advocate to get the best treatment without delay. In my clinic, you aren't a cancer patient, you're a person with questions and priorities that we need to address.
If you're facing uncertainty about your cancer diagnosis or treatment, don't wait to seek clarity. A second opinion doctor can provide the confidence and peace of mind you need to move forward with your treatment journey.
Contact my team for any questions about the second opinion process. We're here to make accessing expert cancer care as straightforward as possible during this challenging time.
