NHS Right to Choose ADHD Assessment
Skip the 5+ year NHS waiting list and get assessed in weeks—completely free. Right to Choose is your legal right to an NHS-funded private ADHD assessment.
What is Right to Choose?
Right to Choose is your legal right under the NHS Constitution (Section 3a) to choose which healthcare provider treats you for your first outpatient appointment.
For ADHD, this means instead of waiting 5+ years on an NHS waiting list, you can request a referral to a private clinic that accepts Right to Choose referrals—and the NHS pays for it.
This isn't a loophole or a special favour—it's enshrined in law under Section 75 of the NHS Act 2006 and reinforced by NHS England guidance.
Your Legal Rights
- Choose any qualified NHS-funded provider
- Get the same quality assessment as private patients
- Skip the multi-year NHS waiting list
- No cost for the assessment itself
- GP cannot refuse without valid clinical reason
Am I Eligible?
You ARE Eligible If:
- You are registered with a GP in England
- You have symptoms consistent with ADHD
- You haven't already been assessed by the NHS for this condition
- The provider you choose is qualified and accepts RTC
Not Available If:
- You live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland
- You're already on an NHS waiting list (but you can still ask to switch)
- You want to choose a provider for ongoing care (RTC is for first appointment)
- The condition requires emergency or urgent care
Already on an NHS waiting list? You can still request to use Right to Choose instead. Ask your GP to cancel your NHS referral and submit a new one to a Right to Choose provider.
How It Works: 5 Simple Steps
Find a Right to Choose Clinic
Browse our directory to find a CQC-registered private clinic that accepts NHS Right to Choose referrals. Check their wait times and services.
Browse RTC ClinicsBook a GP Appointment
Request an appointment with your GP specifically to discuss ADHD symptoms and request a Right to Choose referral. Prepare notes on your symptoms.
Request the Referral
Tell your GP you want to use your Right to Choose to be referred to your chosen clinic. Bring a copy of our template letter and the clinic's referral information.
Get Letter TemplateGP Submits Referral
Your GP completes the clinic's referral form and sends it to the provider. Most clinics will then contact you directly to book your assessment.
Attend Your Assessment
Complete your ADHD assessment with the private clinic (usually via video call). If diagnosed, discuss medication and shared care options.
GP Letter Template
Copy and customise this letter for your GP appointment
Dear Dr [GP Name], I am writing to formally request a referral for an ADHD assessment under my NHS Right to Choose, as outlined in the NHS Constitution and Section 75 of the NHS Act 2006. I have been experiencing symptoms consistent with ADHD that are significantly impacting my [work/education/daily life/relationships]. These symptoms include: • [List 3-5 specific symptoms, e.g., difficulty concentrating, time blindness, impulsivity] I understand that the current NHS waiting time for ADHD assessments in our area is [X years]. Under my Right to Choose, I am entitled to request a referral to a qualified alternative provider. I would like to be referred to [Clinic Name], which is a CQC-registered provider that accepts NHS Right to Choose referrals for ADHD assessments. Their referral information is: • Website: [clinic website] • Email: [referral email] • Phone: [phone number] Please note that: • Right to Choose applies to the first outpatient appointment • The provider is qualified to provide this service • This should not create additional costs for the practice beyond the standard NHS tariff I would be grateful if you could process this referral at your earliest convenience. If you have any concerns about this request, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss them with you. Thank you for your support. Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Date of Birth] [NHS Number if known]
- Replace all [bracketed text] with your information
- Add your specific ADHD symptoms
- Include the clinic's referral details from their website
- Print two copies—one for your GP, one for your records
What If My GP Says No?
"We don't do Right to Choose referrals"
Your response: Right to Choose is a legal right, not a GP discretion. Politely explain it's enshrined in the NHS Constitution and ask them to check NHS England guidance.
"It's too expensive for the practice"
Your response: The cost is paid by NHS England, not the GP practice budget. RTC referrals come from a separate commissioning budget.
"You need to wait on the NHS list first"
Your response: This is incorrect. Right to Choose applies to your first outpatient appointment—you don't need to wait on any list first.
"I've never heard of this clinic"
Your response: Offer to show them the clinic's CQC registration and explain they specialise in ADHD assessments. All RTC providers must be qualified.
"You should see our mental health team first"
Your response: You can request Right to Choose for any appropriate outpatient referral. A local assessment isn't a prerequisite.
"I don't think you have ADHD"
Your response: Ask for a clinical explanation in writing. If you disagree, you can request a second opinion or find another GP who will refer you for assessment.
Still Being Refused?
If your GP continues to refuse without a valid clinical reason, you have options:
- 1.Ask for the refusal in writing with clinical justification
- 2.Speak to the Practice Manager or another GP at the practice
- 3.Contact NHS England to raise a complaint
- 4.Register with a different GP practice that supports Right to Choose
After Your Diagnosis
Diagnostic Report
You'll receive a detailed report confirming your diagnosis, which is sent to your GP. This can be used for workplace adjustments, educational support, or PIP applications.
Medication Titration
If medication is recommended, you'll go through a titration period (3-6 months) to find the right dose. Some clinics include this in RTC; others charge separately.
Shared Care
Once stable, many clinics arrange "shared care" where your GP takes over prescribing. This means ongoing medication costs are covered by the NHS.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Right to Choose cost?
The assessment itself is completely free under Right to Choose—the NHS pays the clinic directly. However, there may be costs during the medication titration period (typically £50-150 per appointment for 3-6 months) before shared care with your GP is established. Some clinics include titration in their RTC package.
How long is the wait for a Right to Choose assessment?
Most RTC clinics can see patients within 2-8 weeks, compared to 2-7 years for NHS waiting lists in many areas. Wait times vary by clinic, so check our directory for current availability.
Can I use Right to Choose if I'm already on an NHS waiting list?
Yes! You can ask your GP to cancel your NHS referral and submit a new Right to Choose referral instead. You don't lose your place—you're just choosing a different provider.
Is Right to Choose available for children?
Yes, Right to Choose applies to both adults and children. Many private clinics accept RTC referrals for under-18s. Your child's GP can make the referral.
What if I'm diagnosed but my GP won't prescribe medication?
Your GP should follow the private clinic's recommendations under shared care guidelines. If they refuse, ask for a written explanation and consider contacting NHS England or your local ICB.
Is Right to Choose available in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
No, Right to Choose is an NHS England policy. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have separate health services with different policies. However, private clinics in these regions offer self-funded assessments.
Official Sources & References
- NHS Constitution - Section 3a: Right to make choices. gov.uk
- NHS Act 2006 - Section 75: Patient choice of provider. legislation.gov.uk
- NHS England - Choice in mental health care guidance. england.nhs.uk
- ADHD UK - Right to Choose campaign and resources. adhduk.co.uk
Ready to Use Your Right to Choose?
Find a clinic that accepts NHS Right to Choose referrals and start your journey to an ADHD assessment—at no cost to you.