What is Right to Choose?
The NHS Constitution gives every adult in England the legal right to choose where they receive their first outpatient appointment for any non-emergency condition — including ADHD assessment.
In practice, this means you can ask your GP to refer you to a private clinic that holds an NHS contract. The clinic delivers your assessment under NHS rules, and the NHS pays the bill. You pay nothing.
Who qualifies?
- Adults aged 18+ registered with an NHS GP in England
- First outpatient appointment for ADHD (not follow-up care)
- You haven't already started ADHD treatment elsewhere
Children, and patients in Scotland/Wales/NI, follow a different process — see your GP.
How to use it: 4 steps
- Choose a provider. Pick a Right to Choose ADHD clinic (we filter our directory by NHS Right to Choose).
- Send the request to your GP. Use a clear letter or email citing the NHS Choice Framework and naming your chosen provider.
- GP makes the referral. They'll typically send it through ERS or by direct letter — should take 1–2 weeks.
- Provider books your assessment. Most RTC providers offer first appointments within 4–24 weeks.
If your GP refuses
It happens — usually because the GP isn't familiar with the policy. Politely point them to the NHS Choice Framework (gov.uk publication). If they still refuse, you can complain to the ICB (Integrated Care Board) for your area.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for NHS Right to Choose?
Any adult registered with a GP in England. It doesn't apply in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, and it doesn't apply to under-18s in most cases.
Is it really free?
Yes. The provider is paid by the NHS at the standard tariff. You pay nothing for the assessment, the diagnosis report, or NHS-funded medication.
How long does Right to Choose take?
Most RTC providers see patients in 4–24 weeks, compared with 1–8 years on standard NHS pathways.
Will my GP agree?
GPs are legally required to refer under Right to Choose if the provider has an NHS contract. We provide a template letter that cites the NHS Constitution.
What about medication and shared care?
After diagnosis the provider titrates your medication. Most GPs then enter a shared care agreement so prescriptions continue on the NHS.