We understand the frustration caused by long waiting times for local NHS services. These delays are a national issue and reflect increasing demand. However, we want to ensure you are fully informed before deciding to pursue an ADHD assessment through the Right to Choose route.
Important Information About the Right to Choose Pathway:
You have a legal right under NHS policy to choose any provider for your ADHD assessment, as long as the provider holds a valid NHS contract. While this can offer faster access in some cases, it is important to understand the following potential limitations:
- Not all Right To Choose providers offer full NHS-funded treatment. Many offer assessments and diagnoses only, without follow-up or prescribing services.
- A diagnosis from an Right To Choose provider may not automatically grant you access to local NHS services for treatment or support, especially if the provider is outside the locally approved pathway.
Unfortunately, most Right to Choose providers do not have an approved agreement with Navigo. This means we cannot take over prescribing or monitoring responsibilities, which may leave patients with a diagnosis but no access to medication or treatment via the NHS locally.
Our Recommendation:
To ensure you receive safe, coordinated, and recognised care, we strongly recommend pursuing referral through the locally approved NHS ADHD service. This route, while subject to delays, guarantees:
- A diagnosis accepted by local NHS services.
- Access to follow-up treatment and medication.
If you still wish to explore an RTC provider, we advise checking that:
- They are currently eligible under NHS rules.
- They offer both diagnosis and treatment.
- You understand that follow-up prescribing may not be possible through our practice unless arrangements are approved locally.
We hope this provides clarity