We know that navigating the process for ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessments can feel overwhelming. That is why we have put together this information to help you with the process of getting an assessment.
Both adults and children have two main routes to choose from:
- Traditional NHS Route- This is the standard pathway through your local NHS service
- Right to Choose Route- This option allows you to select an approved provider from your assessment under NHS funding, giving you more flexibility and often shorter waiting times.
Both routes are fully supported, and we’re here to help you understand which one works best for you. Scroll down to learn more about each option and how to get started for both adults and children.
Please note if you are needing to send in any information to support your referral please send this to
d-icb.medicalsecretary.okehampton@nhs.net
ADULT
Traditional NHS face-to-face Route
This option is suitable for those who prefer in-person care and do not mind longer waiting times. Below is a step by step guide for the process of getting an assessment.
Step 1: Contact the surgery to request an appointment with a GP and fill in the forms below in preparation for your GP appointment.
ADHD form
ASD form
Step 2: GP Appointment
– Speak to the GP to discuss your concerns and review your forms
– If appropriate, your GP will refer you to the Devon Adult Autism and ADHD Service.
Step 3: Waiting List
– Due to high demand, waiting times can be long (often 12-24 months or more)
Step 4: The Assessment
– Once your referral is accepted and your turn arrives, you will be contacted for an in-person or hybrid (some online, some in-person) assessment.
Right to Choose Route
This option is suitable for those who are comfortable with using online services. This option is a faster and fully NHS-funded remote option.
Step 1: Choose a provider & request GP appointment
Right to Choose Providers
– Please use the link above to see a list of ‘Right to Choose’ providers. These are private companies commissioned by the NHS to reduce waiting times and provide remote diagnostic services.
– Please make sure you select a provider from the 1st table as these providers have a Devon Contact and Shared Care Agreement. Please make sure they can see adults and have a tick for ADHD or ASD as your requirement.
– The provider will usually have a form to fill in to take with you to your GP appointment.
Step 2: GP appointment
– Your GP will review your history and form. If appropriate they can refer you to one of the approved NHS-contracted private provider.
– These services are free of charge to you and fully funded by the NHS.
Step 3: Assessment Process
– You will be contacted by the provider and may be asked to complete further digital forms and submit reports (e.g. school or occupational reports, developmental history)
– The assessment is usually conducted via video calls and includes interviews with the individual and relevant family or carers.
Step 4: Diagnosis and Next Steps
– After the assessment, a diagnostic report is issued. This will be shared with your GP
– If a diagnosis is confirmed, the provider may also offer advice on post-diagnostic support or medication initiation if appropriate.
CHILD
ADHD Assessment (Where ASD is not suspected)
Step 1: Collect background information and book GP appointment
– Parent/carer and school will be asked to complete standardised ADHD questionnaires/forms – see links.
NAP 1
NAP 2
Step 2: GP appointment
– Bring completed forms to the GP appointment
– If appropriate, the GP will make a referral to Community Paediatrics.
Notes:
– Waiting times can vary.
– Community Paediatrics may request further information or observations from school or home.
Autism (ASD) Assessment or if ASD & ADHD are suspected together
Step 1: Referral to Children and Family Health Devon (CFHD)
– A parent/carer or the patient’s school can make a referral directly.
– To make a referral visit the Children and Family Health Devon website.
Step 2: Provide Supporting Information
CFHD usually request detailed input from school and parents to support the referral.
Note:
No GP appointment is required for ASD referral via CFHD.
Right to Choose (RTC) Pathway for ADHD & Autism Assessments
Step 1: Choose a provider and book GP appointment
Right to Choose Providers
– Please use the link above to see a list of ‘Right to Choose’ providers. These are private companies commissioned by the NHS to reduce waiting times and provide remote diagnostic services.
– Please make sure you select a provider from the 1st table as these providers have a Devon Contact and Shared Care Agreement. Please make sure they can see Children and have a tick for ADHD or ASD as your requirement.
– The provider will usually have a form to fill in to take with you to your GP appointment
Step 2: Complete Referral form
– Parents complete the provider’s pre-referral form, often including school and family observations.
Step 3: GP Appointment
– Bring completed forms to a GP appointment.
– The GP sends the referral to your chosen Right to Choose provider.
Important Notes for Families and Patients
- If choosing the Right to Choose pathway, ensure the provider is NHS-commissioned and registered under the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS).
- Your GP is legally obliged to refer to the RTC provider as long as the referral is clinically appropriate and the correct forms are provided.
- You cannot use both pathways simultaneously; decide on one and follow through. If referral is through Right to Choose, then cannot have assessment with a local NHS provider.