Right to Choose ADHD & Autism Assessments
Clarity Starts Here.
NHS-funded ADHD and autism assessments through the NHS Right to Choose pathway for adults, children and young people — delivered with care, clarity and clinical integrity.
If you or your child have been waiting for answers, you’re not alone. Right to Choose gives eligible patients in England the option to choose an approved provider for an NHS-funded assessment — and we’re proud to be commissioned by Herefordshire & Worcestershire ICB to provide exactly that. At Oxford CBT, we’re here to guide you through the process, step by step.
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What is Right to Choose?
Right to Choose allows eligible patients registered with a GP in England to choose an approved provider for an NHS-funded assessment. Ask your GP to refer you or your child to Oxford CBT through the NHS e-Referral Service.
Once we receive your referral, we’ll contact you with the next steps & send our secure screening and intake forms. Our clinical team will review your information and confirm the appropriate assessment pathway.
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible for Right to Choose if:
- You’re registered with a GP in England.
- Your GP agrees that an ADHD or Autism assessment is clinically appropriate.
- This is your first request for this type of specialist assessment.
Oxford CBT is contracted by NHS Herefordshire & Worcestershire for adult and children’s ADHD and autism assessments. GPs elsewhere in England can still refer, but we may need to obtain funding confirmation from the patient’s local ICB before proceeding. This may affect
waiting time.
There are some situations where RTC may not apply, such as if you are:
- Currently in emergency or crisis mental health care.
- Being treated under the Mental Health Act or in secure care.
- Already receiving specialist care for the same condition.
- Serving as an active member of the armed forces (this does not apply to family members)
These are general eligibility points — your GP can help confirm if Right to Choose applies for you.
Who we Help
Oxford CBT provides NHS Right to Choose assessments for:
ADHD – Adults
ADHD – Children & young people (6–17 years)
Autism – Adults
Autism – Children & young people (6–17 years)
Why choose Oxford CBT?
At Oxford CBT, we know this process can feel overwhelming. Many people only come because they’ve faced long waits elsewhere — and that’s frustrating. What matters most is that you feel:
Respected and heard
Not rushed
Supported by Clinicians with Real Expertise
Local and Accessible
Supporting patients across Oxfordshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire and online
Transparent
Clear about timelines, outcomes and next steps
NHS Approved
Trusted by the NHS as an approved provider
Adheres to NICE guidelines
Gold standard approach adheres to NICE guidelines.
We focus on quality and clarity, not volume — and we make it easy for your GP to help you access the pathway you’re entitled to.
We keep things as straightforward as possible.
CQC-registered and NHS Right to Choose approved
Oxford CBT is a CQC-registered provider approved to deliver NHS Right to Choose ADHD and Autism assessments under our commissioned NHS contracts. This gives patients and referring GPs confidence that assessments are delivered within a regulated, NHS-approved service.
How the Right to
Choose pathway works
Ask your GP to refer you to Oxford CBT through the NHS Right to Choose pathway. Your GP will submit the referral via the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS).
Need help making the request? Use our Assessment Request Template.
We review your referral
Once we receive your referral, we’ll contact you to complete our digital intake forms. Our clinical team will carefully review your information and complete a thorough screening before confirming your assessment plan and matching you with a clinician suited to your needs.
We confirm and arrange your assessment
Once we receive your referral, we will send you a booking confirmation and a separate email with next steps, including details about the information we’ll need from you. We’ll also explain the assessment format — in person or online where available — and what to expect.
Some assessments may include an in-person element to meet clinical guidance, and we’ll always talk this through with you in advance.
Receive your outcome and report
After your assessment, you’ll receive a clear diagnostic outcome, a full clinical report, and guidance on what happens next. This step-by-step approach is designed to be predictable, supportive and clear so you always know where you are in the process.
Download and complete the Oxford CBT referral form, including all relevant patient, school or family contact details. Providing this information helps us progress your referral and avoid delays.
Take your completed form to your GP and ask for a referral to Oxford CBT through the NHS Right to Choose pathway. Your GP will upload it alongside their referral through the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS).
Our current NHS contracts cover Herefordshire and Worcestershire. For requests outside these areas, we’ll contact your ICB to confirm whether they can fund your referral through Right to Choose.
We review your referral
Once we receive your referral, we’ll contact you to complete our digital intake forms. Our clinical team will carefully review your information and complete a thorough screening before confirming your assessment plan and matching you with a clinician suited to your needs.
We confirm and arrange your assessment
Once we receive your referral, we will send you a booking confirmation and a separate email with next steps, including details about the information we’ll need from you. We’ll also explain the assessment format — in person or online where available — and what to expect.
Some assessments may include an in-person element to meet clinical guidance, and we’ll always talk this through with you in advance.
Receive your outcome and report
After your assessment, you’ll receive a clear diagnostic outcome, a full clinical report, and guidance on what happens next. This step-by-step approach is designed to be predictable, supportive and clear so you always know where you are in the process.
Ready to Start?
NHS Right to Choose vs Private assessments
We believe transparency matters. Here’s how the two pathways differ:
| NHS Right to Choose (RTC) | Private Assessment | |
|---|---|---|
| Funding | NHS-funded | Self-funded |
| Cost to patient | No cost | Fees apply |
| How to access | GP referral required | Self-referral |
| Eligibility | Subject to RTC criteria | Open to all |
| Who can refer | NHS GP | Patient / Parent / Guardian |
| Waiting times | Variable, demand‑dependent | Typically shorter |
| Assessment standards | NICE guidelines | NICE guidelines |
| Diagnostic frameworks | DSM‑5 / ICD‑11 | DSM‑5 / ICD‑11 |
| Clinicians | Appropriately qualified | Appropriately qualified |
| Reports provided | Full clinical report | Full clinical report |
What Our Patients Have To Say
For parents and carers
Waiting for assessments can be especially difficult for families. We work closely with parents and carers to make the process as clear and supportive as possible.
You can expect:
- Clear guidance at each stage
- Sensitive, age‑appropriate assessments
- Awareness of school and transition needs
- Practical recommendations following assessment
- Support with the referral process, including an Assessment Request Template & Referral Form to send to your GP.
Information for GPs and referrers
We aim to make Right to Choose referrals simple and low‑burden for GP practices.
No Oxford CBT screening forms are required before referral — we take care of the screening and clinical triage once the referral is received.
If a patient requests an NHS Right to Choose referral to Oxford CBT:
- Refer via the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS)
- We contact the patient directly once the referral is received
- We complete our screening and clinical triage
- A clinician reviews the referral before the assessment plan & next steps are confirmed
For referral queries: rtc@oxfordcbt.co.uk
ADHD Medication Through NHS Right to Choose
From ADHD assessment to medication support – a clear pathway to treatment.
Following an ADHD diagnosis through Oxford CBT’s NHS Right to Choose service, eligible adults in Herefordshire and Worcestershire can access medication support through our specialist prescribing partner.
ADHD medication can help some people manage difficulties with attention, concentration and impulsivity. However, medication is not suitable for everyone, and treatment decisions are based on individual clinical needs.
Adult ADHD Medication Pathway (18+)
Oxford CBT works with a specialist prescribing partner to provide eligible adults with access to ADHD medication assessment, initiation, titration and ongoing monitoring.
Step 1: Referral for ADHD Medication
If you receive an ADHD diagnosis through Oxford CBT and wish to explore medication, we will arrange a referral to our partner prescribing service.
You cannot self-refer through this NHS pathway. The prescribing service will contact you to arrange your initial appointment.
Step 2: Medication Suitability Assessment
Before medication can begin, a psychiatry team can will review your ADHD assessment, medical history, current medication and physical health.
Additional checks, such as blood pressure, pulse, weight or an ECG, may be required depending on your circumstances.
This assessment establishes whether medication is clinically appropriate and can be started safely. Medication is not automatically prescribed following an ADHD diagnosis.
Step 3: Starting ADHD Medication and Titration
If medication is clinically appropriate, you will have an appointment to discuss your treatment options, potential benefits and possible side effects.
Medication is usually introduced at a low dose and adjusted gradually through a process called titration.
During titration, your prescribing clinician will regularly review your ADHD symptoms, response to treatment, side effects and relevant physical health measurements.
The aim is to find the most effective medication and dose for your individual needs.
Step 4: Ongoing Medication and Reviews
Once your medication and dose are stable, your prescribing service will discuss arrangements for ongoing prescriptions and monitoring.
Where appropriate, a shared care agreement may be requested with your GP. This allows your GP to provide routine prescriptions while specialist medication reviews continue.
Shared care is subject to your GP’s agreement and cannot be guaranteed.
If shared care is not accepted, prescribing and monitoring will remain the responsibility of the specialist prescribing service under the agreed NHS pathway.
ADHD Medication for Children and Young People (Under 18)
The medication pathway for children and young people is different from the adult pathway described above.
Oxford CBT provides ADHD assessments for children and young people through NHS Right to Choose. However, we do not provide ADHD medication or prescribing services for under-18s through this pathway.
The medication pathway for children and young people is different from the adult pathway described above.
Oxford CBT provides ADHD assessments for children and young people through NHS Right to Choose. However, we do not provide ADHD medication or prescribing services for under-18s through this pathway.
What Happens After Your Child’s ADHD Assessment?
- If your child receives an ADHD diagnosis and medication is recommended, this will be clearly documented in their assessment report.
- Oxford CBT will send the assessment report and recommendations to your child’s GP.
- Your GP can then make an onward referral to the appropriate local NHS specialist service, where medication can be considered.
- The receiving service will assess whether medication is clinically appropriate and, where recommended, arrange treatment and ongoing monitoring.
An ADHD diagnosis does not automatically mean medication will be prescribed.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADHD Medication
Can I access ADHD medication through NHS Right to Choose?
Eligible adults diagnosed with ADHD through Oxford CBT’s NHS Right to Choose service can be referred to our specialist prescribing partner for medication assessment and treatment.
For children and young people in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, medication prescribing remains within local NHS specialist services.
Does Oxford CBT prescribe ADHD medication?
Oxford CBT does not prescribe ADHD medication directly through this pathway.
For eligible adults, we arrange referrals to our specialist prescribing partner, who manages medication assessment, initiation, titration and monitoring.
For children and young people, medication recommendations are included in the assessment report, which is returned to the GP for onward referral.
Will I automatically receive medication after an ADHD diagnosis?
No. Medication is not suitable or necessary for everyone.
A specialist prescribing clinician will review your assessment, medical history and physical health before deciding whether medication is appropriate.
What is ADHD medication titration?
Titration is the process of gradually adjusting ADHD medication to identify the most effective dose while monitoring symptoms, side effects and physical health.
This involves regular reviews with your prescribing clinician until your medication is stable.
Can my GP prescribe my ADHD medication?
Once your medication is stable, your specialist may request a shared care agreement with your GP.
If your GP agrees, they may take responsibility for routine prescribing while specialist reviews continue.
GPs are not obliged to accept shared care agreements.
Can my child receive ADHD medication following an NHS Right to Choose assessment?
Medication may be considered following an ADHD diagnosis, but Oxford CBT does not prescribe ADHD medication for children and young people through this pathway.
In Herefordshire and Worcestershire, if medication is recommended, this will be documented in your child’s assessment report and returned to your GP for onward referral to the appropriate NHS specialist service.
Take the next step
If you think Right to Choose could help you or your child, we’re here to support you.
Download and complete the GP referral form, then take it to your GP, who will submit it alongside your referral via e-RS. If this isn’t possible, please contact us.
Helpful Resources
Online and In-Person Assessments
We offer online assessments where clinically appropriate, making it easier for many people to access support in a way that fits around their lives. Adult ADHD assessments are often well suited to an online format and can be carried out remotely.
Other assessments may include an in-person element to ensure they meet clinical guidance. These sessions are offered across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
ICB-approved provider
We’re an ICB-approved provider for NHS Right to Choose assessments and currently work in partnership with several local NHS areas.
This means we can offer:
- Adult ADHD assessments
- Child ADHD assessments (ages 6+)
- Adult Autism assessments
- Child Autism assessments (ages 6+)
Our current NHS contracts cover Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We’re continuing to work with additional areas, so availability may expand over time.
Outside our current ICB areas? You can still submit a referral to us. We’ll contact your ICB to confirm whether they can fund your referral through the Right to Choose pathway.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, our team is always happy to help guide you.
Thames Valley: We have fulfilled our quota for the current funding cycle. We expect to have an update on the next funding cycle and availability from April 2027.
Frequently asked questions
Is Right to Choose really free?
Yes. If you access your assessment through the NHS Right to Choose pathway, it is funded by the NHS.
How long will I wait?
Waiting times are typically shorter than many local NHS services. We’ll always be open about current timelines before proceeding.
Can I choose private assessment instead?
Yes. We offer both pathways and clearly explain the differences so you can make an informed choice.
Can I be referred if I’ve already had an NHS-funded assessment?
If you’ve previously had an NHS or Right to Choose-funded assessment, we’re unable to accept a new referral. For re-assessments, we recommend contacting your original provider or local NHS service for advice.
Where do assessments take place?
Adult ADHD assessments are usually carried out online. Other assessments may include an in-person appointment to ensure they meet clinical guidance. In-person appointments are available at our Worcester hub: Our Place, 9 Edgar Street, Worcester, WR1 2LR, as well as across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
I’m having trouble completing the paperwork, what should I do?
If you need help with the forms or require them in a different format, please get in touch with us. You can reach us on 01865 920077 or email rtc@oxfordcbt.co.uk
What does the ADHD medication (titration) pathway involve?
If medication is recommended following an ADHD assessment, we’ll explain the options clearly and talk you through what happens next.
For children and young people, medication is usually managed by the local NHS trust.
For adults, medication may be started through our specialist psychiatry service where appropriate. Longer-term prescribing is typically supported through a shared care agreement with your GP, in line with NHS guidance.
We’ll guide you through each step and help ensure the right information is shared with the relevant services, so the process feels clear and well supported.
Where can I find out more about my Right to Choose?
You can read the official NHS guidance on Right to Choose on the NHS website here. If you have questions about how Right to Choose works in practice, you’re also welcome to contact our team for guidance.
Contact Us
Need more information about NHS Right to Choose?
If you have questions about ADHD assessments, medication recommendations or the referral process, our team will be happy to help.
Email rtc@oxfordcbt.co.uk or call 01865 920077.