37. ADHD assessment in Wales
In Wales, an NHS ADHD assessment starts with a GP referral to your local health board. Right to Choose does not apply in Wales, even if you live in England but your GP is in Wales. Waits vary between health boards and are often long.
How do I get an ADHD assessment in Wales?
Step 1: See your GP
+Tell your GP how your symptoms affect your daily life. Ask them to refer you to your health board's adult neurodevelopmental or mental health service.
Step 2: The referral
+Some health boards assess ADHD and autism together in one neurodevelopmental service. Children are referred to the children's neurodevelopmental service in your area.
Step 3: Ask about the wait
+Ask your GP or health board how long the current wait is, and ask for the referral date in writing.
Welsh-language assessment
+Some NHS services in Wales offer assessments in Welsh. Ask for this when you are referred.
What are my other options in Wales?
Right to Choose: England only
+People registered with a GP in Wales do not have a legal right to choose where they are referred. You are usually referred outside your area only if the service isn't available locally.
Private assessment
+You can pay for a private assessment. Before you book, ask your GP whether they would share prescribing after a private diagnosis. Some GP practices in Wales will not.
If something goes wrong
+You can raise a concern with your health board through the NHS Wales complaints process, called Putting Things Right.
Where to get help
NHS 111 Wales
Health information and advice for Wales, at 111.wales.nhs.uk.
ADHD UK
UK-wide guides to getting assessed, at adhduk.co.uk.
Citizens Advice Cymru
Free advice on your rights, benefits and work, at citizensadvice.org.uk/wales.