Right to Choose: ASD & ADHD Assessment Pathways
What is Right to Choose?
In England, under the NHS, you now have a legal right to choose your mental healthcare provider, including for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments. This service, offered through the NHS, is free of charge.
Introduction to Right to Choose Referrals
Did you know that NHS patients have the legal right to select their mental healthcare provider? This important right allows you to explore alternative providers if the waiting time for an ADHD or ASD assessment is too long. Right to Choose, introduced in 2018, is still a relatively new system, and many patients may not be aware of these options.
Who Can Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
Several clinics across the UK offer Right to Choose ADHD and/or ASD assessments. To be eligible to provide this service, clinics must also offer the same service to the NHS in England. Private-only clinics are not eligible. Checking a provider’s website is a good way to determine if they offer the services you need.
Which Providers Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
The list of clinics offering Right to Choose assessments is constantly evolving. Currently, several clinics are available, but there may be other providers worth researching as well.
Important Resources
Things to Consider About Right to Choose
It’s important to note that many clinics offering these assessments can diagnose ADHD or ASD but may not provide medication titration. This means you might need a local NHS referral if medication is required to manage symptoms.
When Can You Not Use Right to Choose?
There are certain restrictions on eligibility for Right to Choose referrals. You are not eligible if:
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You require urgent or emergency treatment.
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You are already receiving care for the condition you are seeking an assessment for.
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The provider you choose cannot provide appropriate care for your condition.
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You are a prisoner or in specific secure settings, such as a secure hospital or under the Mental Health Act.
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You are a serving member of the armed forces.
How to Request a Right to Choose Referral from Your GP
Submit an eConsult detailing your symptoms and the provider you would like to use. Please give as much detail as possible.
Consult Online from Home - Stubbington Medical Practice
***Update on your Right to Choose provision – October 2025***
Please see the message below from the Hampshire and IOW Integrated Care Board regarding Right to Choose Referrals
In 2025, we have increased the capacity of our Right to Choose provision by 167% compared to last year. However, many providers have already reached the limit of what they can deliver under this plan. As a result, some patients will not be seen for a new assessment this financial year (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026).
Visit the ICB website for more information