ADHD Assessments: Choosing the Right Pathway for You

There are several different routes to an ADHD assessment in the UK, each with its own benefits, limitations, and practical considerations. The table below outlines some of the key differences between a standard NHS assessment, NHS “Right to Choose” providers, and a private assessment with an independent psychologist. It’s intended to help you understand how these options compare in terms of waiting times, access, cost, and follow-up care, so you can make an informed decision about which pathway might best suit your needs and circumstances. ADHD Assessments: Choosing the Right Pathway for You

Feature	NHS Standard ADHD Assessment	NHS “Right to Choose” ADHD Providers	Private Assessment with an Independent Psychologist
Report Usefulness	Clinical NHS report for ongoing care	NHS-accepted report	Detailed clinical report useful for GP and future care planning, Supports Access to Work, Educational Accommodations
Cost to You	Free (fully NHS funded)	Free (funded by NHS)	Self-funded (typically £900+)
Typical Wait Time	Very long — often 1–3+ years or more	Shorter — often ~4–12 months, depending on provider capacity and region	Short — often ~1–8 weeks
Who Can Access	All UK residents via GP referral	England residents via GP referral to an approved provider	UK-wide (self-referral possible)
Choice of Provider	Limited — local NHS service	Moderate — choose from NHS-contracted providers	Full choice (you choose clinician/psychologist)
Assessment Scope	Diagnostic assessment using NHS protocols	Diagnostic assessment with NICE standards via contracted provider	Comprehensive clinical diagnostic assessment tailored individually
Follow-Up Care	Ongoing care (including medication) managed by NHS	Varies by provider — some offer medication titration and shared care, others only diagnosis	Medication decisions and prescription not provided directly by a psychologist (but report supports shared care discussions with GP)
Pathway to Medication	NHS specialist manages prescribing once diagnosed	Some providers include medication titration and NHS shared care, but this is inconsistent	May support shared care with your GP (GP prescribing) but psychologist cannot prescribe — you and your GP decide next steps
Shared Care: GP Prescribing	Standard NHS procedure	Depends on provider and GP willingness to adopt shared care	May be possible as GP shared care with your report, but not guaranteed