Right to Choose
If you live in England and are eligible for an NHS neurodevelopmental assessment, you have the legal Right to Choose your NHS provider for ADHD and/or autism (ASD) assessments. This service is free through the NHS.
Who can use Right to Choose?
You can use Right to Choose once your referral has been reviewed and accepted for a neurodevelopmental assessment, confirming that an assessment is clinically appropriate.
Your options
You can choose to:
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Stay on the RDaSH waiting list, where assessment and ongoing care are provided, including medication management where appropriate through shared care with your GP.
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Transfer to an NHS Right to Choose provider for your assessment. Some providers also offer post-diagnostic support and medication, although shared care with your GP may vary.
Please note that you cannot remain on more than one waiting list at the same time.
Choosing a provider
You will need to select and contact your preferred Right to Choose provider. Before choosing, consider asking:
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Are they an NHS-accredited Right to Choose provider?
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What are their current waiting times?
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Do they assess ADHD, autism, or both?
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How will they communicate with your GP?
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What post-diagnostic support and medication services do they provide?
What happens next?
Once you've chosen a provider, they will work with the NHS and RDaSH to arrange the transfer of your care. Your chosen provider will also keep your GP informed of your assessment and any ongoing treatment.
Helpful resources
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NHS: Your choices in the NHS
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ADHD UK: Right to Choose Guide
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NHS Choice Framework (GOV.UK)