ADHD and Autism (ASD) Referral Pathway
NHS DAANA Referrals and Your Right to Choose
If you are seeking an assessment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this letter explains the referral pathways available through the NHS, including DAANA services and your Right to Choose.
1. What is NHS DAANA?
DAANA (Diagnosis, Assessment and Neurodevelopmental Access) is an NHS specialist service providing assessments for neurodevelopmental conditions, including ADHD and autism.
If you suspect ADHD or autism, your GP can make a referral to your local NHS DAANA service. Waiting times vary depending on local demand.
2. Your Right to Choose: ADHD & ASD Assessments
What is Right to Choose?
Under NHS legislation in England, patients have the legal Right to Choose their provider for ADHD and ASD assessments. This allows you to choose an NHS-funded external provider instead of the standard local NHS pathway. These assessments are free of charge when completed through the Right to Choose process.
3. How to Request a Right to Choose Referral
If you wish to use Right to Choose, the steps are:
- Research and select your preferred provider
– You or your family/carer (for child patients) must choose the provider.
– The GP cannot recommend or advise on which provider to select.
– Please ensure you meet any age or eligibility criteria set by the provider.
- Download and complete any forms or questionnaires required by your chosen provider
– These may include symptom checklists, consent forms, or personal information.
– Your GP is not required to complete the provider’s paperwork and cannot do so.
- Submit the provider’s referral requirements to the GP practice
– Email or bring printed copies to the surgery reception.
– Please include:
• Provider name
• Referral requirements
• Completed patient forms
• Any necessary patient ID information
- The GP will generate and send a referral letter
– The GP will review your request and issue a standard clinical referral letter.
– Once sent, the provider will contact you directly to begin the assessment process.
4. Providers Offering Right to Choose Assessments
The list of available clinics changes frequently. Many clinics currently accept Right to Choose referrals, but we encourage patients to research providers carefully to ensure they meet their needs. Useful resources:
· ADHD/Right to Choose information – available via the national ADHD resources website. Visit the ADHD website for more information.
· South & West Devon Referral Forumulary ADHD and Autism FAQ - South & West
· One Devon Right to Choose Autism & ADHD Assessment FAQs ADHD and Autism FAQ - South & West
5. Important Information from the Bovey Tracey & Chudleigh GP Practice
Please note the following:
· Shared Care Agreements - Our practice does not enter into shared-care agreements for medication initiated by NHS, independent or private providers, including those seen under Right to Choose. This means:
o We cannot issue prescriptions for ADHD medication that has been started by an external provider.
o Ongoing medication reviews and management must remain with your chosen assessment provider
· Local NHS Waiting Times- Local NHS DAANA pathways may have significant waiting times. Right to Choose may offer a shorter route, but this varies by provider. Please consider waiting times when choosing your pathway.
· Appointment Requirements - The GP may request:
o A routine consultation to discuss symptoms and clinical history
o Background information from school (for children)
o Screening questionnaires (completed by the patient, parents, or teachers)
This helps ensure the referral is clinically appropriate and meets NHS requirements.
· Follow-Up or Non-Attendance - If you do not respond to provider contact or do not attend scheduled assessments, you may be discharged. A new referral may require another GP appointment.
· Private Assessments - If you choose a private assessment outside the Right to Choose process, you will obtain your medication and monitoring privately from this provider.
· Summary of Your Options - You may choose either:
1. Local NHS DAANA Assessment – standard NHS pathway
2. Right to Choose Provider – alternative NHS-funded pathway
3. Private Assessment – outside the NHS (fees apply)
If, once you have chosen your referral pathway and provider, you would like to proceed with a referral, please submit a request for a referral from your GP via out website www.towerhousesurgery.co.uk or telephone your usual surgery.
Kind regards,
The Bovey Tracey & Chudleigh Practice