NHS Right to Choose ADHD —
what it is and what to expect
Right to Choose is a powerful legal right — but it has real limitations in 2026 that most guides don't tell you about. Here is the honest picture.
The basics
What is NHS Right to Choose?
A legal right most people with ADHD don't know they have — and a powerful tool when used correctly.
The NHS Right to Choose is enshrined in the NHS Constitution for England. It gives patients the legal right to choose their provider for a first outpatient appointment — including ADHD assessment services. If your GP agrees you need an ADHD assessment, you can ask to be referred to any approved independent provider rather than your local NHS ADHD service. The NHS pays.
This means you can potentially access a faster assessment than your local NHS waiting list offers — while still having the NHS fund the full cost. It is a genuine option worth knowing about, and for many people it is the right pathway.
Free
No cost to the patient — NHS funded
9–15mo
Typical RTC wait in 2026
England
Available across England only
GP ref
GP referral required to access
Step by step
How Right to Choose works
- 1
Speak to your GP
Tell your GP you believe you have ADHD and would like an assessment. Ask to use Right to Choose.
- 2
Request your provider
Name a specific Right to Choose qualified provider. Your GP refers you to them rather than the local NHS service.
- 3
Referral accepted
The provider accepts your referral and adds you to their waiting list. You receive a welcome communication.
- 4
Wait for assessment
Current RTC wait times range from 9–15 months in 2026, depending on provider and your ICB.
- 5
Assessment completed
Full NICE-compliant ADHD assessment delivered. Written report provided.
What they don't always tell you
The real limitations of Right to Choose in 2026
RTC is a legitimate and valuable pathway — but it has significant constraints that are becoming more pronounced as demand grows.
The titration trap
Most RTC contracts cover assessment only. After diagnosis, many patients wait a further 6–12 months just to begin medication titration — sitting with a diagnosis but no treatment.
ICB funding restrictions
Several Integrated Care Boards have introduced funding caps and booking pauses in 2026. Even with Right to Choose, some areas cannot offer appointments until new funding is released.
Assessment only — nothing else
RTC typically covers the initial assessment appointment. Annual reviews, titration, medication management and clinical letters are usually separate — and may not be NHS funded.
Not available everywhere
Right to Choose applies in England only. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different arrangements. Even in England, local ICB restrictions mean some patients cannot access their chosen provider.
Your options
Right to Choose vs private assessment
Neither pathway is universally better — it depends on your circumstances. Here is the honest comparison.
NeuroAxis Right to Choose — coming soon
NeuroAxis is actively pursuing CQC registration and Right to Choose accreditation. Once confirmed, you will be able to access NeuroAxis assessments via your GP at NHS cost — with the same no-waiting-list, QbCheck-included, clinician-led service that defines everything we do.
The goal is to be one of the few RTC providers that treats assessment and titration as one seamless pathway — not two separate queues. Register your interest below and we will contact you the moment RTC is available.
Register your interest →Common questions
Right to Choose FAQs
Can't wait 9–15 months for answers?
NeuroAxis private assessments available within days · No GP referral · QbCheck included