How to Refer Patients for ADHD Assessment Using NHS Right to Choose or Private Pathway
Addressing the ADHD Access Bottleneck
NHS ADHD waiting lists continue to exceed 18–24 months, leaving many patients undiagnosed and unsupported. GPs are managing rising demand with limited options, often seeing repeat presentations with no clear pathway forward.
Focus Gently offers a compliant, low-burden solution:
NHS-funded assessments under the Right to Choose (RTC) framework
A rapid private pathway for patients seeking self-funded access
This page outlines how each route works—and how you can refer with confidence.
Option 1: NHS Right to Choose (RTC)
Under NHS policy, patients in England have the right to choose any clinically appropriate provider that holds an NHS contract. Focus Gently is able to receive referrals under RTC.
Patient Eligibility:
Registered with a GP in England
Referred for ADHD assessment
Aged 18+
Clinically appropriate referral (based on your judgement)
Benefits to Your Practice:
No cost to the practice or patient
2–4 week assessment timeframes
We manage all paperwork, consent, and compliance
Comprehensive post-assessment reports
Shared care protocols or discharge summaries provided
Option 2: Private ADHD Assessment Pathway
For patients not eligible under RTC—or those who prefer to self-fund—we offer a direct private pathway.
Key Features:
No referral required (self-referral accepted)
Appointments typically available within 7 days
Fixed fee structure
Full diagnostic assessment, report, and treatment recommendations
Option to transition to private prescribing or shared care post-diagnosis
Summary: Which Pathway to Use?
| NHS Right to Choose | Private Pathway | |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | GP in England | UK-wide |
| Cost | NHS funded | Self-funded |
| GP referral required | ✅ Yes | Optional |
| Wait time | 2–4 weeks | 7 days |
| Shared care available | ✅ Yes | Case-by-case |
| Admin required | Minimal | None |
How to Refer
NHS Right to Choose Referrals:
Complete our RTC referral form (provided upon request)
Include a covering letter stating your clinical rationale
Email documents to: info@focusgently.com
Our clinical admin team will liaise directly with the patient and keep you updated throughout the process.
Private Pathway:
Patients can self-refer via our website:
www.focusgently.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this service really NHS funded?
Yes. The Right to Choose pathway is part of NHS policy and does not require local CCG approval.
What if my patient lives outside Ipswich?
We accept referrals from across England under RTC, and UK-wide for private care.
Will I receive a copy of the diagnostic report?
Yes. All GP referrers receive a comprehensive clinical summary post-assessment.
Ready to Refer?
We are currently onboarding practices across Suffolk and beyond.
Join GPs who are already improving ADHD access for their patients.
