ADHD/ASD Right to Choose

ADHD and/or Autism Assessment Referrals

NHS Right to Choose or Private Providers

Please Read Before Requesting a Referral

Requests for ADHD and Autism assessments have increased significantly in recent years. As a result, waiting times across Sussex are much longer than they used to be. We understand this can be frustrating and stressful for patients and families who are seeking support and clarity.

If you live in England, you may be able to use NHS Right to Choose to access an NHS-funded assessment with an alternative provider if local waiting times are long.

What Is NHS Right to Choose?

Right to Choose allows NHS patients in England to choose a different NHS-approved provider for certain services, including ADHD and Autism assessments.

You may be eligible if:

  • You are registered with a GP in England
  • The provider is NHS-approved
  • The service is available under the Right to Choose pathway

This can sometimes reduce waiting times and gives you more choice over where your assessment takes place.

You do not need a GP appointment to request a Right to Choose referral.

Once you have chosen a provider, our Medical Secretarial Team can submit the referral for you.

Information About ADHD Medication

Some Right to Choose providers or private psychiatrists may recommend medication as part of an ADHD diagnosis.

Please be aware:

  • ADHD medications are restricted (controlled) drugs
  • GPs cannot usually start or continue these medications without specialist involvement
  • The specialist is responsible for your ongoing care and regular reviews
  • A GP may agree to prescribe under a shared care agreement, but this is not guaranteed
  • Shared care arrangements are considered carefully for patient safety and due to local monitoring resources

If the provider:

  • Stops trading, or
  • Loses their NHS contract

then your specialist care and prescriptions would likely stop. In these circumstances, the GP cannot safely continue prescribing without specialist oversight.

How to Start Your Referral

Step 1: Visit ADHD UK

View the Right to Choose provider list on the ADHD UK website

This is best viewed on a computer, as tables may not display properly on mobile devices.

Your action:
Review the list of NHS-funded providers and compare your options.

Step 2: Read the Provider Information

Each provider has different services, waiting times, and referral requirements.

Your action:
Decide which provider best suits your needs.

Step 3: Check the Provider’s Criteria

Visit your chosen provider’s website and read the “More Details” section.

Some providers may require:

  • Questionnaires
  • A patient summary
  • A GP referral letter

Your action:
Check exactly what information the provider needs to accept your referral.

Step 4: Complete Any Required Forms

Fill in all questionnaires or forms requested by your chosen provider.

Your action:
Make sure everything is fully completed so your referral is not delayed.

Step 5: Send Your Documents to Us

You can:

Please ensure all documents include:

  • Your chosen provider
  • Your full name
  • Your date of birth

Your action:
Provide the surgery with everything needed to process your referral.

What Happens Next?

  • Your GP will review the information provided
  • We will let you know if a GP appointment is required or if more information is needed
  • Once the referral is sent, the Medical Secretary Team will contact you by telephone or SMS

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