Right to Choose ADHD & Autism Assessments in the UK (2026 Guide)
Quick Summary: Right to Choose (RTC)
- Right to Choose allows patients in England to select an NHS-funded provider for ADHD or autism assessments.
- You must be referred by your GP and choose a provider that has an NHS contract.
- RTC can significantly reduce waiting times compared to local NHS services.
- It applies in England only and may not be available in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.
Compare ADHD and autism assessment providers across the UK, including providers that may accept NHS Right to Choose referrals.
Intro
Identify a provider that accepts NHS RTC referrals.
Right to Choose (RTC) is an NHS pathway that allows patients in England to choose their assessment provider for certain services, including ADHD and autism assessments.
For many families, this route is used to access earlier assessments when local NHS waiting lists are long.
This guide explains how Right to Choose works in practice, who is eligible, and how to access it.
What is Right to Choose?
Right to Choose is part of NHS patient choice policy in England. It allows patients to request referral to a provider of their choice, provided that provider has an NHS contract for the service required.
This means you are not limited to your local NHS service and can choose an alternative provider where appropriate.
Who can use Right to Choose?
You can usually use RTC if:
- You are registered with a GP in England
- The service is commissioned by the NHS
- The provider you choose has an NHS contract
RTC is typically used for:
- ADHD assessments
- Autism assessments
- Some mental health services
How to access Right to Choose (step-by-step)
How the Right to Choose process works
- Visit your GP and request a referral.
- Choose a provider that accepts NHS RTC referrals.
- Ask your GP to refer you under Right to Choose.
- The GP submits the referral to the provider.
Step 1: Visit your GP
Request a referral for an ADHD or autism assessment.
Step 2: Choose a provider
Choose a provider that accepts NHS Right to Choose referrals.
👉 You can explore providers here:
View ADHD & Autism Assessment Providers in the UK
You can also read more about private pathways:
Private ADHD & Autism Assessments in the UK
Step 3: Request referral under RTC
Clearly state you wish to use Right to Choose and name your chosen provider.
Step 4: GP submits referral
The GP sends your referral to the provider.
Waiting times: local NHS vs RTC
In many areas, local NHS waiting times can exceed 1–3 years.
RTC providers may offer shorter waiting times, although this varies depending on demand and provider capacity.
Key point
Right to Choose can be useful where local waiting times are long, but it is not the same as a fully private assessment. You still need a GP referral and the provider must hold an appropriate NHS contract.
Choosing a provider
When selecting a provider, consider:
- Whether they accept RTC referrals
- Clinical qualifications and regulatory registration
- Assessment process and follow-up support
- Whether they provide full diagnostic reports
Where available, check whether providers are registered with recognised UK regulators such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC), or relevant professional bodies.
Quick decision guide
- If waiting times locally are long, consider Right to Choose
- If you need faster access and can self-fund, consider private assessment
- If unsure, review both pathways before deciding
Important limitations
- RTC applies only in England
- Not all providers accept RTC referrals
- Some GPs may not be familiar with RTC, so you may need to reference NHS guidance
- RTC covers assessment, but follow-up pathways may vary
RTC vs private assessments
| Right to Choose | Private Assessment |
|---|---|
| NHS-funded | Self-funded |
| Requires GP referral | Direct booking |
| Potentially faster than local NHS | Usually fastest |
| Limited provider list | Wider choice |
Common Questions
Can my GP refuse Right to Choose?
GPs should follow NHS patient choice guidance, but awareness varies.
Does RTC apply to children and adults?
Yes, depending on the provider and service.
Is RTC faster than private?
Usually not faster than private, but often faster than local NHS.
Do all ADHD providers accept Right to Choose?
No. Only providers with NHS contracts for the relevant service can accept RTC referrals.
Can I choose any provider in England?
You can choose any provider that has an NHS contract and accepts referrals for your required service.
Can I switch provider after referral?
In some cases, you may be able to request a change, but this depends on referral status and local NHS processes.
Ready to explore your options?