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What is Right to Choose (RTC)?

If you live in England, and your GP refers you for a physical or mental health condition, in most cases you have the legal right to choose the organisation (qualified provider) you would like to go to, giving you greater freedom of choice and control over your care. Please note that RTC does not cover Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Do you accept Right to Choose referrals for anyone?
We accept Right to Choose referrals for any adult living in England, with only one exception. As we are currently contracted with NHS Bolton ICB, we cannot accept RTC referrals for patients from Bolton. Instead, you would need to be referred to them directly by your GP, and the ICB would then refer you to us.
What Does the ADHD Right To Choose Under the NHS Regulation Entail?
  • You have the option to select your preferred practice for your first elective referral.
  • The chosen provider must hold a standard NHS contract.
  • The referral must be clinically appropriate and come from a GP. (This template letter may be useful when discussing the Right to Choose referral with your GP)
  • If your GP or clinic admin doesn't offer you the RTC, you can reach out to your local ICB.
The key takeaway is this: if you're seeking consultant-led elective or mental health services such ADHD assessment and treatment, you can choose your provider using your ADHD right to choose without needing prior approval from your local health service commission.
Young People at a Workshop
Why Is Using Your RTC Provision Important When Seeking ADHD Treatment?
If it's your first referral, employing your RTC means you're choosing a doctor who you trust can cater to your specific needs.

If you suspect you may exhibit symptoms of ADHD, which you can assess using our ADHD screening test link, consider discussing your results with your GP and expressing your preference for a specific doctor or practice.
Circumstances Where ADHD RTC Provision May Not Be Applicable
There are scenarios where the RTC provision may not apply:
  • If you're already receiving mental health care for the same condition.
  • If you're under urgent (or crisis) care.
  • If you're receiving highly secure psychiatric care.
  • If you're a serving member of the armed forces.
In essence, if you're already receiving in-patient care via the NHS, you may not qualify for the RTC provision.
 
Should you have more questions about a Right to Choose referral to Adult ADHD Northwest, please contact us either by email at  gmicb-bol.righttochoose@nhs.net
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