ADHD and Autism Referrals

Right to Choose Referrals for Autism / ADHD

This webpage provides information for patients who would like to request a referral for an ADHD and/or autism assessment through the NHS Right to Choose (RTC) pathway.

What is Right to Choose?

Under the NHS Right to Choose (RTC), you have the legal right to choose which provider carries out your assessment for ADHD or autism. This means you do not have to join the local NHS waiting list and can instead choose an alternative provider, which may have shorter waiting times.

It is important to note that you must choose your own provider, and we cannot recommend one for you. We can only send your referral once you have selected a provider and provided us with the necessary information.

Right to Choose referrals are not urgent and are not suitable for crisis or immediate mental health concerns. If you are experiencing urgent mental health difficulties, please seek support by completing our online triage form, contacting the practice reception team, or calling NHS 111.

Important considerations with Right to Choose assessments

Many Right to Choose (RTC) providers carry out ADHD and autism assessments remotely or online. While they must meet required standards and regulations, their assessment processes may differ from traditional NHS specialist services. In some cases, local NHS services may not automatically accept a diagnosis made through an RTC provider. This means onward NHS care may not always be available following an RTC assessment.

If you are diagnosed with ADHD, the RTC provider may recommend medication. ADHD medications are specialist medicines and are not routinely prescribed by GPs. They are usually initiated and monitored by specialist services.

Chapelgreen Practice is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients. Where it is clinically appropriate and safe to do so, we will consider entering into shared care agreements with NHS Right to Choose providers.

All requests for shared care prescribing are reviewed by our Medicines Management Team to ensure that they meet the required clinical, professional, and governance standards before a decision is made.

When considering a shared care request, we will assess whether:

•  The treatment is supported by current national clinical guidance and represents appropriate evidence-based care.
•  The provider is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), where applicable.
•  The treatment has been recommended by an appropriately qualified specialist who is in good professional standing and holds the relevant professional registration.
• The responsibilities of both the specialist and the GP are clearly defined, and the practice can safely undertake the aspects of care requested.