What is the 'right to choose' pathway for ADHD in the UK?

It's a system allowing NHS patients to select private providers for ADHD assessments and initial treatment, aiming to reduce waiting times.

Why is private ADHD care described as a 'wild west'?

Lack of regulation, inconsistent training for assessors, and poor oversight create an unregulated environment, leading to patient harm.

What are the consequences of poor regulation in private ADHD care?

Patients face administrative confusion, delayed or inadequate treatment, and in severe cases, tragic outcomes due to systemic failures.

Home / Health / ADHD Care: A 'Wild West' for Patients?

ADHD Care: A 'Wild West' for Patients?

13 Jan

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Summary

Private ADHD assessments lack regulation and standards.
Patients face administrative limbo between providers.
Systemic failures led to a tragic loss of life.

The 'right to choose' system for ADHD assessments in the UK, intended to reduce long waiting lists, is facing severe criticism for its lack of regulation and inconsistent standards. This pathway allows NHS patients to select private providers, but the absence of clear national frameworks for qualifications and assessment rigor has created a 'wild west' environment. Experts warn that this poorly managed system, driven by profit and aggressive promotion, leaves vulnerable individuals in administrative limbo, unable to secure necessary treatment.

Tragic cases, like that of Ryan, highlight the dire consequences of these systemic failures. Despite being diagnosed with ADHD by a private provider, Ryan struggled to link his assessment with GP shared-care, experiencing significant delays and a critical breakdown in communication. His story underscores how the system's demand for stability exacerbates the crisis for those already struggling, leading to missed support and devastating outcomes. The lack of responsibility and coordination between services has been a recurring issue.