Assessment

hass
hass Online Community Member Posts: 247 Empowering
in Autism and neurodiversity

Good evening all.

I am wanting an AUTISM AND ADHD TEST DONE BUT

GP NOT ALLOWING.

Can't afford private

Any advice be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

Comments

  • Adrian_Scope
    Adrian_Scope Posts: 14,149 Online Community Programme Lead

    Has your GP given you an explanation as to why they won't refer @hass? Some areas cite is as funding or service issues, but I believe they actually need to give a clear clinical reason as to why they are refusing (for example if they feel you do not meet the clinical criteria).

    Have you had any assessments for autism or ADHD in the past?

    Some areas have restricted funding because the service is overwhelmed, but this isn't the same as you being ineligible.

    As a second option, could you try for a second opinion from a different GP at the same practice?

    If you're in England, you could also explore your options under Right to Choose.

  • Trevor_PIP
    Trevor_PIP Online Community Member Posts: 1,225 Championing
    edited December 2025

    Two very good points @Adrian_Scope - meeting criteria and overwhelmed. I had a foot issue and my GP referred me to Podiatry. He warned me you will wait some time and the department is a "law to themselves." Months passed and my GP had heard nothing so referred again..... I called Podiatry myself and told I don't meet the criteria, I asked why I don't meet the criteria stating I would like an answer after waiting 12 months. It came about to get an appointment you nearly needed an amputation due to the department being overwhelmed!! I had to be a diabetic and my foot had to be bleeding currently to meet the criteria!! I paid privately in the end and the lady was ex NHS......

    I understand the person that started the thread has a different issue and definitely needs a reason why the GP will not refer to the correct department. It could be to do with criteria and overwhelming.

  • WhatThe
    WhatThe Online Community Member, Scope Member Posts: 5,050 Championing
    edited December 2025

    Hello hass, you will need to hassle your GP to get that referral for an assessment!

    You need to persuade him/her of this disorder and be determined to get diagnosed. These diagnoses are not 'given' and you may need supporting evidence from childhood.

    I suggest downloading some questionnaires and providing them to your GP's surgery with a covering letter.

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