Answer
Does insurance cover a cancer second opinion?
Yes — most insurance plans (PPO, HMO, Medicare, Medi-Cal) cover an oncology second opinion. PPO and Medicare members can self-refer; HMO and Medi-Cal members typically need a referral from their primary care physician.
Last updated: 2026-07-10 · Reviewed by Cancer Answers OC Care Coordination Team
Second opinions are considered standard of care for cancer and are rarely denied as medically unnecessary.
PPO plans: schedule directly with any in-network oncologist.
HMO plans: request a referral from your PCP — most are issued within a few days.
Medi-Cal and managed Medi-Cal plans cover second opinions; ask the member services line on the back of your card.
Verify the consulting oncologist is in-network before the appointment to avoid out-of-network charges.