Know your rights
Second opinion & referral to reference centres
In a tumour as complex as glioblastoma, being treated at an experienced centre changes everything. These are two rights worth knowing.
Right to a second opinion
- Territorial limitIt can only be requested within your own Autonomous Community.
Referral to reference centres (SIFCO)
- ProblemSmaller cities often lack experienced specialists and advanced resources.
- SolutionYour medical team should activate the SIFCO system to refer you to a national reference hospital.
- Risk it preventsMisdiagnoses and local surgeries with serious after-effects.
- BenefitIt guarantees access to critical tests such as genetic sequencing (NGS).
- CostsYour Autonomous Community covers them; always keep invoices for later reimbursement.
This is general guidance, not legal advice. Procedures vary by Autonomous Community — your hospital's social work unit can guide you.
Know your rights
TTFields, funded by public healthcare
Tumour Treating Fields are an additional therapy for newly diagnosed glioblastoma. Since 2025 they are funded by the National Health System — a right worth knowing.
What it is
- TherapyElectric fields delivered by a portable device worn on the scalp, which disrupt the division of tumour cells.
- BenefitAdded to standard chemotherapy, clinical trials have shown an improvement in survival.
Public funding
- SinceAugust 2025, included in the SNS common service portfolio, within a Ministry of Health monitoring study.
- WhoAdults with newly diagnosed glioblastoma who meet the eligibility criteria.
- HowThrough designated hospitals; ask your team whether you are eligible.