Right to Choose ADHD and Autism Assessments: Faster NHS Diagnosis with RTN Diagnostics

Did you know you can skip years of NHS waiting lists and still get a fully funded ADHD or autism assessment in England through Right to Choose, by opting for NHS approved providers like RTN Diagnostics?

In this post, we will explore how the process works, who’s eligible and why we are a trusted choice for your ADHD or autism assessment. 

NHS Right to Choose: Skip Waiting Lists for ADHD and Autism Assessments 

Under the NHS Right to Choose framework patients registered with a GP in England have the legal right to request an alternative, NHS-funded provider, for certain services including ADHD and autism diagnostic assessments. 

This service is designed to put the power back in the hands of patients, providing access to timely and appropriate care, with all costs covered by the NHS.

What Assessments Does RTN Diagnostics Offer Through the NHS Right to Choose?

RTN Diagnostics currently accepts Right to Choose referrals for the following: 

• Adult autism 

• Child autism (aged 6+)

• Adult ADHD (with medication options) via our sister company RTN Medical 

• Adult Combined (ADHD and autism)

We do not currently offer Child ADHD assessments via the Right to Choose, however we can provide this privately with flexible payment plans available. 

How to Make a Right to Choose Referral for ADHD or Autism

Submitting an ADHD or autism referral may seem daunting, but it is easier than you might think! Let us break it down for you in a few simple steps: 

• Download and complete the most relevant self-report questionnaire and the GP letter template from our Right to Choose webpage. 

• Take the completed self-report form and the GP letter template to a GP appointment and request a referral to RTN Diagnostics, or RTN Medical (our sister company) for adult ADHD.

• Once the GP has sent it off to us, we will review your referral to confirm that you meet the Right to Choose criteria, and contact you to start the assessment process if you do. 

It is important to note that there are a few eligibility exclusions, so we would advise that you read them before submitting a referral. 

What Happens Following an ADHD or Autism Referral? 

Once your referral is accepted we will begin the assessment process, where our friendly team will guide and support you throughout. 

The key stages of the assessment process include: 

• Pre-Assessment & Triage: We collect basic information to determine if an assessment is appropriate for you.

• Questionnaires: You and a chosen informant will complete questionnaires on elements like traits and behaviours.

• Supporting Information: We may also ask for additional documents to support your assessment. 

• Diagnostic Interview: An interview (or two, depending on your assessment type) will be scheduled with an assessor online.

• Diagnostic Report: A detailed report is prepared by our team, and finalised by a psychiatrist or psychologist (depending on your assessment type) who has extensive experience and training in autism and ADHD. 

• Post-Diagnostic Feedback: You'll be invited to a session to review your results and receive supportive follow-up guidance.

Why Choose RTN Diagnostics for your Assessment?

Choosing RTN Diagnostics for your Right to Choose NHS ADHD or autism assessment means accessing care from a provider that truly understands neurodiversity. We are owned and run by mental health professionals and proudly operate as a neurodiverse hiring company, meaning many of our team bring lived experience to their work. We know that long waits can be difficult, which is why our waiting times are among the shortest—typically beginning the assessment process within just 8 weeks of referral. Every assessment we deliver is NHS-approved, adheres to NICE guidelines, and is carried out with a person-centred focus, ensuring you receive high-quality, compassionate care.

To begin your referral process simply visit our Right to Choose webpage. You can also access our Virtual Assistant, FAQ’s or contact our team directly if you have any questions about the process.