11/03/2025
Sick of Waiting times with CAMHS?
✋ Exercise Your Right to Choose! ✋
In England, under the NHS Right to Choose, you have the legal right to choose where your child is assessed for certain conditions, including neurodevelopmental assessments (such as for autism or ADHD) and mental health services. This applies to services provided by NHS England or providers commissioned by the NHS.
How the Right to Choose Works for a Child’s Assessment
1. Referral from a GP or healthcare professional
Your child’s GP, school SENCO, or another healthcare professional must refer your child for an assessment.
The referral must be for a condition covered under NHS Right to Choose (e.g., autism or ADHD assessments).
2. Choosing a provider
You can request a specific provider as long as they are NHS-commissioned and offer the relevant service.
This can include private providers if they are commissioned by the NHS.
3. Informing your GP
Clearly state that you are exercising your Right to Choose when discussing the referral.
Provide the name of the provider you prefer.
4. Waiting times and acceptance
Some providers may have shorter waiting lists than your local NHS service.
The provider may review the referral and confirm if they can assess your child.
✋️IMPORTANT NOTES✋️
This does not apply to all medical conditions—only those where the NHS commissions multiple providers.
Local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) may have restrictions, so check your local NHS guidelines.
If a referral is refused, you can challenge the decision or request a second opinion.
