42. Shared care
You got diagnosed privately or via Right to Choose. Now you want your GP to take over the prescription so you pay standard NHS prescription charges instead of private prices that can run to hundreds. The handover is called shared care, and many GPs refuse. This page explains why, and what to do.
What is a shared care agreement?
A formal letter from your private/RTC psychiatrist to your GP, saying "we have titrated this patient, here is their dose, please prescribe NHS-side". The GP signs, NHS prescribes, you pay the standard NHS prescription charge, or you can buy a prepayment certificate if you need several items. Check current charges on nhs.uk.
Why do some GPs refuse shared care?
Some ICBs (the bodies that fund GPs) instruct surgeries to refuse shared care for Right to Choose, citing "capacity". This is contested. GPs are also nervous about prescribing controlled drugs they did not titrate. None of this is your fault.
What can I do if my GP says no?
- Ask for the refusal in writing, citing the specific policy.
- Forward to your private/RTC provider, they often have template appeals.
- Complain to the ICB (Integrated Care Board) for your area. Find it via NHS website.
- Switch GP surgery, some local surgeries do shared care, others refuse blanket. r/ADHDUK keeps a community list.
- Last resort, stay on private prescription. Costs vary, so check with your provider. Many people do this for years.
NHS services, provider availability, waiting times and local arrangements change. Check current information with your GP, the provider or GOV.UK. Last checked September 2026.