GP referral submitted 2 years ago but haven't heard back since

Q&A (Run by volunteers)
1

Hi, I’m looking for advice on using Right to Choose for an ADHD assessment.

I was referred by my GP around two years ago for an ADHD assessment through my local NHS service, but I haven’t heard anything since and assume I’m still on a long waiting list.

Given the delay, I’d now like to use Right to Choose to be referred to a provider with a shorter waiting time.

I wanted to check:

  • Does my existing referral help in any way when switching to Right to Choose?
  • Do I need to be removed from the original waiting list first, or can I stay on both?
  • Is there anything specific I should say to my GP to make the process smoother?

I’m currently based in London.

Thanks in advance for your help.

2

Hi, thank you for sharing this. It’s likely that others joining the community will be in a similar situation.

Yes your existing referral can sometimes support a Right to Choose assessment and can also sometimes reduce the wait times. NHS ADHD referrals can sometimes be redirected to a Right to Choose provider rather than starting fresh.

A lot of GPs will start a new referral either way, but having the original on record helps confirm the need for assessment and reduce potential holdups.

  1. Right to Choose guidance: Right to Choose - ADHD UK

  2. National wait times: Right to Choose - ADHD UK - Your NHS options

    Feel free to get in touch again if any other questions come up as you take the initial steps, and wishing you the best with it!