Right to Choose - ADHD and Autism

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Under the NHS Right to Choose in England, patients have the legal right to select their mental healthcare provider and team for services such as ADHD and Autism assessments. This initiative aims to provide patients with more control over their healthcare decisions, especially when local waiting times are extensive.

Patient Responsibilities:

• Understanding Eligibility: Ensure you meet all Right to Choose eligibility criteria. 
• Initiating the Process: Discuss your desire to use Right to Choose with your GP. While the GP assesses the clinical necessity for a referral, you have the right to choose the provider once a referral is deemed appropriate.
• Researching Providers: Familiarise yourself with available providers that offer the required services under Right to Choose. 
• Providing Necessary Information: Be prepared to supply your GP with details of your chosen provider to help facilitate the referral. This usually includes a referral form, questionnaire, and a cover letter—each provider will have their own specific requirements. Please read through your chosen provider’s website and referral guidelines carefully, and make sure you give your GP all the necessary documents and information to ensure a smooth referral process.

GP/Surgery Responsibilities:

• Assessing Clinical Need: Evaluate whether a referral for an ADHD/Autism assessment is clinically appropriate based on the patient's symptoms and history. 
• Informing Patients: Educate patients about their Right to Choose, ensuring they are aware of their options for selecting a healthcare provider. 
• Processing Referrals: Once a provider is chosen by the patient, the GP should process the referral in accordance with NHS guidelines, ensuring all necessary medical information is included. 
• Shared Care with Chosen Providers: If a diagnosis is made and the patient requires medication, the GP may be asked to enter into a Shared Care Agreement with the chosen provider to support ongoing treatment. This involves sharing relevant medical records and coordinating care. Please note that this only applies if the provider offers a Shared Care Agreement. We suggest that if patients are unsure whether their provider offers shared care or what their process involves, to please contact them directly for clarification.

For a comprehensive list of providers available under Right to Choose, please visit ADHD UK's dedicated page: https://adhduk.co.uk/right-to-choose/

By understanding these responsibilities, both patients and GP practices can work together to ensure timely and appropriate access to the right services.