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Understanding the Process

How Right to Choose Works for ADHD Assessments in the UK

Rhyd ColeApril 7, 20253 min read

‘Right to Choose” is an NHS policy that can potentially help reduce wait times for ADHD assessments in England. Here’s how it works:

What is Right to Choose’?

Right to Choose stems from the NHS Constitution and was reinforced by the 2014 NHS England Choice in Mental Health Care policy. It allows patients to choose who provides their NHS care when referred for certain outpatient services, including ADHD assessments and treatment.

Eligibility

  • Only available in England (not Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland)
  • Applies to patients registered with an NHS GP in England
  • Only for specific services that have been commissioned
  • The private provider must have an NHS contract

How the Process Works

  • Request a referral: Ask your GP for a referral for an ADHD assessment.
  • Specify Right to Choose: Explicitly mention you’d like to use Right to Choose and name the specific provider you wish to be referred to. Bring information about the provider and their NHS contract.
  • GP creates referral: Your GP needs to make the referral to your chosen provider, stating it’s under Right to Choose.
  • Provider assessment: The chosen provider will assess your eligibility for their service and contact you.
    Assessment and treatment: If accepted, you’ll receive an assessment and potential treatment through the provider, funded by the NHS.

Important Considerations

  • Funding approval: The Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) or Integrated Care Board (ICB) in your area must approve funding
  • GP familiarity: Many GPs are unfamiliar with this pathway and may need more information.
  • Provider capacity: Many providers have temporary pauses on accepting new Right to Choose patients due to high demand.
  • Documentation: You may need to provide a letter template to your GP explaining the process.
  • Follow-up care: Clarify arrangements for ongoing care if medication is prescribed.

Challenges

  • Some CCGs/ICBs have disputed or delayed Right to Choose referrals
  • GPs may be hesitant due to lack of familiarity with the process
  • Many providers have waiting lists, though typically shorter than NHS specialist services
  • The process can still require persistence and advocacy

If you’re considering this route, it’s worth checking the current status of provider availability and preparing documentation to help your GP understand the process. We provide provide letter templates and guidance (ADD LINK TO NEW PAGES) to assist with your Right to Choose referral.