Right to Choose for ADHD and Autism Referrals in the UK

Right to Choose for ADHD and Autism Referrals in the UK

The NHS Right to Choose allows you to select which provider assesses and treats your ADHD or autism. Here's how to apply:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

  • You must be registered with an NHS GP in England
  • Right to Choose applies to first outpatient appointments only (not follow-ups)
  • Not available in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland (different systems apply)

Step 2: Research Providers

  • Find NHS-approved Right to Choose providers that offer ADHD/autism assessments
  • Check their waiting times, locations, and whether they see children, adults, or both
  • Common providers include Psychiatry-UK, Clinical Partners, PUK (for adults), and others
  • Verify they're on the NHS e-Referral System (e-RS)

Step 3: Book a GP Appointment

  • Request an appointment specifically to discuss an ADHD/autism referral
  • State clearly you want to use your Right to Choose
  • Bring information about your chosen provider (name, address, NHS e-RS code if available)

Step 4: During the GP Appointment

  • Explain your symptoms and why you're seeking assessment
  • Inform your GP you're exercising your Right to Choose
  • Provide your chosen provider's details
  • Your GP may ask you to complete screening questionnaires

Step 5: GP Makes the Referral

  • Your GP should refer you to your chosen provider via the NHS e-Referral System
  • Important: Some GPs may be unfamiliar with Right to Choose or resistant - you can politely reference NHS guidance
  • The GP cannot refuse a Right to Choose referral if the provider is NHS-commissioned

Step 6: Await Contact

  • The provider should contact you within a few weeks to arrange your assessment
  • Waiting times vary by provider (some offer appointments within weeks/months vs years on standard NHS pathways)

If Your GP Refuses

If your GP refuses to make a Right to Choose referral:

  1. Ask them to document their refusal in your medical notes
  2. Reference the NHS Choice Framework
  3. Request to speak to another GP at the practice
  4. Contact NHS England or your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) to make a complaint
  5. PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) can provide support

Key Tips

  • Be prepared with symptom examples and how they impact daily life
  • For children, bring school reports or teacher observations if possible
  • Keep copies of all correspondence
  • Some providers may have age restrictions (child vs adult services)
  • Post-diagnosis, medication and follow-up care typically returns to your GP or local NHS service

Note: Right to Choose doesn't guarantee faster assessment everywhere, but typically offers significantly shorter waits than standard NHS ADHD/autism pathways, which can be 2-5+ years in some areas.

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