The Right to Second Medical Opinion in Indonesia: Reconstructing Patient Autonomy in Hospital Decision-Making

Abstract

The ability to seek a second medical opinion is an important mechanism for patients to participate meaningfully in decisions concerning diagnosis and treatment. Despite its relevance to patient autonomy, the practical exercise of this right may be constrained by institutional practices, physician attitudes, costs, and difficulties accessing medical records. This article examines the legal status of the patient's right to obtain a second medical opinion in Indonesia and evaluates the responsibilities of hospitals in facilitating its exercise. Using normative legal research, the study analyzes patient autonomy, informed consent, professional duties, medical records, and healthcare institutional obligations. The analysis reveals that the right to a second opinion should be understood not merely as an administrative option but as an integral component of meaningful patient autonomy. Hospitals should therefore facilitate access to relevant medical information and should not impose unnecessary barriers that discourage patients from seeking alternative professional assessments. The article proposes a patient-centered framework requiring accessible medical records, transparent referral procedures, non-retaliation guarantees, and clear information regarding potential costs and treatment alternatives. Recognizing and operationalizing the right to a second opinion can reduce information asymmetry between healthcare professionals and patients while strengthening informed decision-making, accountability, and fairness in Indonesian healthcare.