Patients have a right to which of the following?

• A. To demand a second opinion.
• B. To request a second opinion.
• C. To refuse all treatment.
• D. To dictate which physician will treat them.

Answer: (B)

Seeking a second opinion reflects a patient’s autonomy to participate in care and to confirm or reassess a diagnosis or treatment plan. When patients want additional perspective, they have the right to request that a different clinician review the case, ask questions, and obtain more information before making decisions. This collaborative approach helps ensure that care aligns with the patient’s values and preferences and supports informed decision-making.

The option about demanding a second opinion uses forceful language that doesn’t fit how patient rights are typically exercised in practice. While patients can often refuse treatment, that right is separate and not the focus of obtaining a second opinion. And patients generally cannot dictate exactly which physician will treat them, since staffing and professional judgments guide provider assignments.