What is Right to Choose?

sjajawi
6 hours ago
5 min read

If you've been referred by your GP for an ADHD or autism assessment, you may have heard the term Right to Choose but be unsure what it actually means.

The NHS Right to Choose scheme gives eligible patients in England the opportunity to choose their healthcare provider for certain NHS services, including ADHD and autism assessments. Instead of automatically joining your local NHS waiting list, you may be able to choose an approved provider, such as Dr J & Colleagues, while still receiving NHS-funded care.

For many people, Right to Choose offers greater flexibility, more choice, and access to specialist clinicians. Understanding how the process works can help you make informed decisions about your care and take the next step towards an assessment with confidence.

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What is NHS Right to Choose?

The Right to Choose policy was introduced to give NHS patients more control over where they receive treatment. It allows eligible patients to choose from a range of healthcare providers that hold NHS contracts for the services they require.

For individuals seeking an assessment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or autism, this means you may not have to rely solely on the provider commissioned by your local NHS area. Instead, your GP may be able to refer you to another approved provider offering NHS-funded assessments through the Right to Choose pathway.

Although the assessment is carried out by your chosen provider, the service remains funded by the NHS, meaning there is no cost to eligible patients.

This approach gives patients greater choice while helping ensure they can access specialist assessments from experienced clinicians.

Who Can Use Right to Choose?

Not everyone will be eligible, but many patients in England can access assessments through Right to Choose.

In general, you may be eligible if you:

Are registered with a GP practice in England.
Require a referral for an ADHD or autism assessment.
Have discussed your symptoms with your GP.
Meet the NHS eligibility criteria for referral.
Choose a provider that offers NHS-funded services through the Right to Choose pathway.

Eligibility may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is always advisable to speak with your GP if you are unsure whether Right to Choose is available to you.

How Does the Right to Choose Process Work?

The process is often much simpler than people expect.

1. Speak to Your GP

Arrange an appointment with your GP to discuss the symptoms you have been experiencing and how they affect your daily life.

2. Discuss Your Assessment Options

If your GP agrees that an assessment is appropriate, you can discuss your Right to Choose options and request referral to your preferred provider.

3. Your GP Makes the Referral

Once your GP has completed the referral, the provider will review the information before contacting you with the next steps.

4. Attend Your Assessment

Your assessment will usually involve a detailed discussion about your symptoms, personal history, education, employment, relationships, and day-to-day experiences.

5. Receive Your Outcome

Following the assessment, your clinician will explain the outcome, answer any questions you may have, and discuss any recommendations or treatment options where appropriate.

What Assessments Can Be Accessed Through Right to Choose?

Depending on the provider and the NHS services they offer, Right to Choose may include assessments for:

Adult ADHD Assessments

ADHD is not only diagnosed during childhood. Many adults seek an assessment after recognising lifelong difficulties with attention, organisation, impulsivity, or emotional regulation.

Adult Autism Assessments

Many autistic adults reach adulthood without receiving a diagnosis. An assessment can help explain lifelong experiences and provide greater understanding and access to support.

The services available through Right to Choose may vary depending on the provider, so it is always worth checking the latest information before requesting a referral.

What Are the Benefits of Right to Choose?

Many patients choose the Right to Choose pathway because it offers several advantages over standard referral routes.

Some of the key benefits include:

Greater choice over your healthcare provider.
NHS-funded assessments with no cost to eligible patients.
Access to experienced specialist clinicians.
Comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
Clear diagnostic reports and recommendations.
The opportunity to access appropriate treatment and ongoing support where required.

Every patient's experience is different, but many people appreciate having more control over where they receive their assessment.

Common Misconceptions About Right to Choose

There are several misunderstandings surrounding the Right to Choose pathway.

"I have to use my local NHS service."

Not necessarily. If you are eligible, you may be able to choose an alternative provider that offers NHS-funded assessments through Right to Choose.

"Right to Choose isn't funded by the NHS."

This is incorrect. Assessments carried out through Right to Choose remain NHS-funded for eligible patients.

"I can't ask my GP for a specific provider."

Patients can discuss their preferred provider with their GP. Your GP will consider your request alongside NHS referral guidance and eligibility criteria.

"Right to Choose guarantees immediate appointments."

Although many providers offer shorter waiting times than some local services, waiting times can still vary depending on demand.

Understanding how the process works helps avoid unnecessary confusion and allows you to make informed decisions about your care.

How to Prepare for Your ADHD or Autism Assessment

Preparing before your assessment can help ensure your clinician gains a clear understanding of your experiences.

It may be helpful to think about:

When you first noticed your symptoms.
How your symptoms affect work, education, or relationships.
Any childhood experiences that may be relevant.
Family history of ADHD or autism.
Previous assessments or reports.
Questions you would like to ask during your appointment.

You do not need to have every answer prepared in advance. The assessment is designed to explore your experiences in detail and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have.

Why Choose Dr J & Colleagues?

At Dr J & Colleagues, we understand that seeking an ADHD or autism assessment can feel like a significant step. Our experienced clinicians provide compassionate, evidence-based assessments designed to help patients gain a better understanding of their symptoms and receive clear, personalised recommendations.

We are committed to delivering high-quality care throughout every stage of the assessment process, from your initial referral through to diagnosis, treatment planning where appropriate, and ongoing support.

Our patient-centred approach focuses on listening carefully, answering your questions, and ensuring you feel informed and supported throughout your journey.

Book an ADHD or Autism Assessment Through Right to Choose

If you believe you may be eligible for the NHS Right to Choose pathway, speaking to your GP is often the first step towards accessing an ADHD or autism assessment.

At Dr J & Colleagues, our experienced clinicians provide comprehensive assessments designed to help patients better understand their symptoms and receive clear recommendations for ongoing care where appropriate.

Whether you are seeking an adult assessment, we are committed to providing compassionate, professional, and patient-centred care throughout your journey.

If you would like to learn more about Right to Choose or begin the referral process, our team is here to help.