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England only · NHS choice

ADHD Right to Choose

Clinically reviewed by Shamir Patel(GPhC) Last reviewed September 2026

Direct answer

What is Right to Choose for ADHD?

Right to Choose is a legal right in England that, in certain circumstances, lets you choose which provider your GP refers you to for a first outpatient appointment with a consultant-led mental health service — including ADHD assessment — provided that provider holds a relevant NHS contract. ADHD Path does not currently accept NHS Right to Choose referrals.

  • Applies in England only
  • Requires a GP referral
  • Provider must hold a relevant NHS contract
  • ADHD Path does not currently offer Right to Choose

Who can use it?

Adults and children registered with a GP in England, where the GP agrees a referral to a specialist is clinically appropriate. Some exceptions apply, for example people detained under the Mental Health Act or serving in the armed forces.

How GP referral works

You ask your GP for a referral and name the provider you would like. The GP must agree a referral is appropriate, and the provider must hold a qualifying NHS contract for that service.

Can children use Right to Choose?

Yes, the right can apply to children's referrals in England, subject to the same conditions.

Does ADHD Path accept Right to Choose?

No. ADHD Path is currently a private provider and does not hold an NHS contract for Right to Choose referrals. We will update this page if that changes. If you want an NHS-funded assessment, ask your GP about providers available under Right to Choose.

Book an ADHD Assessment

Structured clinical assessment and written outcome.

Book an ADHD Assessment

Frequently asked questions

Is Right to Choose available in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?

No — the legal right applies in England.

Can my GP refuse a Right to Choose referral?

A GP may decline if they don't consider a referral clinically appropriate, or if the provider doesn't hold a qualifying contract.

Will medication be prescribed after a Right to Choose assessment?

Prescribing arrangements depend on the provider and your GP, including any shared-care agreement.

Can I switch to ADHD Path from a Right to Choose list?

You can choose a private assessment at any time, but it would be self-funded.

Related questions

Related ADHD Path services

Clinical authorship & review

Sadiqur Rahman, ADHD Specialist Pharmacist Assessor

Written by

Sadiqur Rahman

TBC · ADHD Specialist Pharmacist Assessor

GPhC 2228297
Shamir Patel, CQC Registered Manager & Clinical Pharmacist

Clinically reviewed by

Shamir Patel

MPharm, Independent Prescriber · CQC Registered Manager & Clinical Pharmacist

GPhC 2049338
Published
1 September 2026
Last reviewed
28 September 2026
Next review
28 September 2027

References

  1. Your choices in the NHS — choosing where to go for your first appointment. NHS England. Source
  2. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NG87). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2018, updated 2019. Source