Health insurance knowledge base | 22.9.2026
Are you seeking a medical second opinion in Switzerland? This can be worthwhile before a scheduled operation, for example. Or if you have doubts about a diagnosis or therapy. Read on to find out how to go about this and how the BetterDoc service can help.
On this page
It is advisable to seek a second opinion as a basis on which to make decisions about your own health, particularly in the following cases:
Even if you have already received differing opinions and still have doubts – or simply if you would like to be better informed: seek a second opinion and have an open and constructive discussion about your health issues with the medical professionals. Weigh up different treatment options – and then make your decision with confidence.
Ask around friends or family for recommendations, particularly if there are people with similar health problems. It can still be time consuming finding the right doctor for a second opinion. And it can be difficult for laypeople; for example, investigating qualifications and experience, or treatment outcomes.
You can contact health insurers that collaborate with neutral teams of experts – they will check your files and help you to make a decision. Independent information and referral platform BetterDoc helps patients to find a specialist in their area, an experienced doctor or a suitable hospital – and can also help you arrange an appointment. For KPT customers with Semi-Private, Private, Private Worldwide or Flex supplementary hospital insurance, the BetterDoc service is free.
Whether you have back pain, lung disease or heart problems, BetterDoc will find you the most appropriate doctor, a qualified specialist or the right hospital for your heath situation. You can access this information directly following a diagnosis, in cases of serious illness or before scheduled surgeries – indeed, any time you need more information or a second opinion.
BetterDoc offers more than just a second opinion – for example, you might have stubborn shoulder pain and be looking for an orthopaedic specialist. In this case, you can use BetterDoc as your first port of call to find a specialist with extensive expertise and experience in shoulder conditions who can provide you with the help you need. Whatever the field of medicine, BetterDoc searches for a doctor with the right specialisation, training and experience for you.
You receive close, personalised support from BetterDoc, through a doctor or medical adviser who is assigned to you. Proceed as follows:
In principle, as a patient, you have the right to obtain a second opinion. The costs are often covered by health insurance. However, you may need a referral from your GP to obtain a second opinion, depending on your basic health insurance model. Always discuss the course of action with your health insurer.
Many health insurers include special offers for a second opinion in their supplementary health insurance policies. If you have Semi-Private, Private, Private Worldwide or Flex supplementary hospital insurance with KPT, the BetterDoc service is free for you.
The process for obtaining a second opinion varies depending on the health insurer and the insurance model. As a general rule:
A second opinion does not mean that the first doctor is wrong; rather, it allows you to gather comprehensive information and find out what other options are available, so that you are able to make a well-informed decision about your treatment.
Compare the treatment suggestions carefully. Take your time when making your decision. You can also discuss the second opinion with your current doctor and work together to develop the best treatment plan for you. State your thoughts and questions clearly – and try to maintain open communication with both doctors throughout the process.
Thomas Stucki is a KPT product manager with considerable knowledge of the health insurance market. Drawing on many years of experience in product development, market analysis and trend monitoring, he shares valuable insights into the world of health insurance products on our blog.
Semi-private hospital insurance supplements basic health insurance for hospital stays. It offers benefits that are not covered under basic health insurance, such as a twin room or free choice of doctor.
KPT customers have access to 24/7 telemedical advice even when travelling. If you get sick while abroad, you can obtain immediate medical advice by calling the SOS number. Read on to discover everything you need to know prior to departure.
Dry cough, or is it pneumonia? With the Well app, you can simply check your symptoms online and immediately receive a medical assessment based on the information provided. You can then follow the recommendations or contact your GP if necessary. It is so convenient – the Well app and symptom checker form part of the digital basic health insurance model, KPTwin.smart, meaning you can manage your health using the app and save both time and doctor’s costs.
Rising healthcare costs lead to higher health insurance premiums. Despite this, there are still ways to save. Find out what discounts are available on basic and supplementary insurance plans.
