What is the Right to Choose?
Under NHS England policy, patients have the legal right to choose their provider for many types of outpatient mental health services, including assessments for conditions like ADHD and Autism. This right allows greater control over who provides your care and may help reduce long waiting times by enabling referrals to qualified independent providers.
Who is Eligible?
To access a provider under the Right to Choose:
- You must be registered with a GP practice in England.
- Your GP must agree that a referral is clinically appropriate for an outpatient mental health service.
- The provider you choose must:
- Offer the specific service required (e.g., ADHD assessment),
- Have an active NHS contract (with any ICB or NHS England),
Deliver care led by a qualified consultant or mental health professional.
When the Right to Choose Does NOT Apply
There are several exceptions where this right does not apply:
● You are already receiving mental health care for the same condition.
● You require urgent or emergency (crisis) mental health support.
● The service is commissioned by a local authority (e.g. drug and alcohol services), unless under a joint arrangement with the NHS.
● You are detained under the Mental Health Act.
● You are located in a secure setting, such as:
o Prisons
o Secure children’s homes or training centres
o Immigration removal centres
o Young offender institutions
You are a serving member of the armed forces (note: family members living in England still retain this right).
How to Use the Right to Choose
- Discuss with your GP
Talk to your GP about your concerns. If they agree that a referral is appropriate, you can then choose a provider that offers the service. - Identify a Suitable Provider
Look for a provider that:- Offers the relevant service under an NHS contract,
- Meets clinical standards and employs appropriate professionals.
- Request a Referral
Let your GP know the provider you’d like to be referred to under the Right to Choose. The referral must be formally made by the GP for the process to begin.
Download Right to Choose Referral Form – Adults
Download Right to Choose Referral Form – Children
GP Refferal Submission
Common Questions
No. If the provider has an existing NHS contract, no additional authorisation is required.
No. Right to Choose referrals are not subject to IFR processes.
No. A GP referral is mandatory.
Minds Matter and Right to Choose
Minds Matter fulfil all the provider qualifications under the Right to Choose Act if you are seeking mental health care for a child or teenager, especially in relation to autism or ADHD. We have an active NHS contract, and we are led by qualified mental health professionals and consultants. We offer services pertaining to ADHD assessments for children, Autism assessments for children, and general psychiatric reviews for children.
