Ratification Date: 13/01/2025

Next Review Date: 13/01/2027

Advice for People Considering Assessments for Neurodiverse Conditions

 

We have conducted an in depth procurement of private ADHD assessment and treatment providers in order to add to the options available to people living in Norfolk and Waveney. We now have two Frameworks of trusted providers that you can receive assessments and treatment from. There is an Adults (18+) Framework for ADHD and a Children and Young People’s (6-18 years) Neurodevelopmental conditions Framework for ADHD and Autism.

 

People can be referred to providers on these Frameworks via their GP. Please click on the links above to see more information on these Frameworks and the providers under them.

 

Please note that Norfolk and Waveney ICB are not able to assure the clinical quality and safety of providers who are not on these Frameworks.

 

Independent / Private assessments

Some people may wish to seek out an independent or private assessment, instead of one of the providers available on our Frameworks. When considering an independent or private assessment for neurodiverse conditions (including ADHD and Autism), it’s important to do your research and ensure the provider is appropriately qualified.

 

It can be useful to:

 

Cost

If you’re thinking about getting a private or independent assessment, these are typically paid for by the individual and not by the NHS. Costs can vary, so make sure you fully understand what’s included.

 

Your GP or pharmacist can discuss with you any ongoing prescription charges and your responsibilities for payment. This includes costs for medication reviews.

 

What assessment and support can involve

Assessment and support offers might look different.

What to look for:

  • Pre-assessment screening – this will help decide if a full assessment is required. You may be asked to complete a strengths and difficulties questionnaire.
  • Pre-diagnosis support – some providers offer tailored support for you and your caregivers.
  • Full assessment with a feedback meeting – this may include screening for other conditions and the meeting will describe the result of the assessment.
  • A follow up meeting, ideally within six weeks of the assessment where you can ask questions about the assessment, outcome, or next steps. If medication is recommended, ask about what alternatives are available.
  • Post diagnostic support – some providers offer tailored support for you. This will impact the overall cost of the service.

Outcomes report

When the assessment is complete, you will receive an outcomes report. This report can be helpful in describing what reasonable adjustments need to be made in education or employment or how professionals can best support a person with strategies or communication.

 

It is up to you whether this report is shared and how much information is included, but we recommend that as a minimum, your GP practice receives a copy.

 

The report should also describe:

  • Any safeguarding/identified risks.
  • Any ongoing referrals made to local agencies.
  • Relevant signposting to local agencies following assessment outcome.

 

Guidance

  • Where medication is recommended, speak to your GP or practice pharmacist about whether they would support this recommendation and if it is in your best interests.
  • Consider requesting what information the assessor collects about you and how they will store this information. This includes consent.
  • Consider requesting information on who will be conducting the assessment. This should be with a senior clinician who has received the appropriate training.
  • NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines are evidence-based recommendations for health and care in England and Wales. They help health and social care professionals to prevent ill health, promote good health and improve the quality of care and services. You can ask the provider if they are following NICE guidelines, which also cover the prescribing of medication.
  • Although there is not a set amount of time for NDD assessments to take place, a thorough examination should take between one to three hours. You can ask the provider how long their examination process typically takes and be cautious of those that take significantly less than one hour.
  • If you are unsure about an Autism service, consider reaching out to Autism Anglia or the National Autistic Society.

 

Diagnosis

If there is any uncertainty/disagreement about the outcome of the assessment, you should liaise with the independent provider within six weeks. Requests for a second opinion will mean joining the NHS waiting list in your local area.

 

 

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