NHS pathway · Factual guide
NHS ADHD Assessment
Direct answer
How do I get an NHS ADHD assessment?
To get an NHS ADHD assessment you usually speak to your GP, who can refer you to a local specialist ADHD or neurodevelopmental service if appropriate. Children may also be referred via school, a health visitor or a paediatrician. Eligibility criteria and waiting times vary by area.
- Usually starts with a GP appointment
- Assessment by a local specialist service
- Free at the point of use
- Pathways differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Starting with your GP
Explain how your difficulties affect daily life and that they have been present since childhood. Bringing examples, school reports or a completed screening questionnaire can help the conversation. The GP decides whether to refer based on local criteria.
The specialist service
NHS assessments are carried out by adult ADHD services, community mental health teams, CAMHS or community paediatrics, depending on age and area. They should follow NICE NG87.
Differences across the UK
Service structures differ between the four nations and between local areas. The legal right to choose provider applies in England only.
Waiting times
Waiting times vary considerably between areas and change over time. ADHD Path does not publish estimates for NHS waits — your GP or local service can tell you the current position.
Book an ADHD Assessment
Structured clinical assessment and written outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Can I self-refer to NHS ADHD services?
In most areas, no — a GP referral is needed. Some local services accept other referral routes.
Can my GP refuse to refer me?
A GP may decide a referral isn't appropriate. You can ask for the reasons, request a second opinion, or discuss other options.
Is NHS assessment the same quality as private?
Both should follow NICE NG87.
What is Right to Choose?
In England, a legal right in some circumstances to choose which provider you are referred to. See our Right to Choose guide.
Related questions
Related ADHD Path services
Clinical authorship & review
Clinically reviewed by
Shamir PatelMPharm, Independent Prescriber · CQC Registered Manager & Clinical Pharmacist
GPhC 2049338- Published
- 1 September 2026
- Last reviewed
- 28 September 2026
- Next review
- 28 September 2027
References
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — Diagnosis. NHS. Source
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NG87). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2018, updated 2019. Source
- Your choices in the NHS — choosing where to go for your first appointment. NHS England. Source