What Right to Choose covers
Right to Choose is a legal right in the NHS Constitution for England (and the NHS Commissioning Board Regulations 2012) to choose your NHS provider for most first elective outpatient appointments. Adult autism assessment is included.
Several NHS-commissioned independent providers offer assessment under Right to Choose, with published waiting times that are often substantially shorter than the local NHS specialist team. The assessment, diagnosis and report are NHS-funded — free at the point of use.
Who can use it
- Adults in England (Right to Choose is England-only).
- Anyone needing a first elective outpatient appointment for autism assessment.
- You don't need a prior diagnosis or formal screening — though many GPs will use a screening tool (e.g. AQ-10) as part of the conversation.
Picking a provider
Provider availability and waits change rapidly. Always check the provider's current NHS Right to Choose page before referral. When comparing providers, look at:
- Current published waiting time.
- Whether assessments are in-person or video.
- Whether they routinely include co-occurring ADHD assessment.
- What post-diagnostic support, signposting, or follow-up they offer.
Asking your GP — sample wording
What assessment looks like
A NICE-aligned adult autism assessment under CG142 typically includes:
- A structured developmental history (a parent or someone who knew you growing up may be asked to contribute — not always required).
- A clinical interview about current functioning, sensory experience, social communication and routines.
- One or more standardised tools, e.g. ADOS-2, DISCO, RAADS-R, or 3Di.
- A multi-disciplinary discussion of findings.
Most providers now deliver the bulk of assessment by secure video. The whole process can take a few weeks once assessment starts.
After diagnosis
You and your GP get a diagnostic letter and report, usually with recommendations for reasonable adjustments. Post-diagnostic support — peer groups, sensory advice, occupational therapy — varies by area and provider. Many adults find local autism charities the best source of practical follow-up.
If your GP refuses to make a Right to Choose referral, see our guide on refused referrals. A formal, NICE-cited letter — citing CG142 — is often what shifts the answer. Finally Seen writes that letter for £49.
Frequently asked questions
›Is the autism assessment free under Right to Choose?
Yes. Right to Choose providers are NHS-commissioned. The assessment, diagnosis and the diagnostic report are free. Post-diagnostic support varies by provider and area.
›Can my GP refuse a Right to Choose autism referral?
Not on cost or familiarity grounds. Right to Choose is a legal right under the NHS Constitution and the NHS Commissioning Board Regulations 2012. A refusal has to be on a clinical reason, written into your notes.
›What kind of assessment will I get?
A NICE-aligned adult autism assessment (CG142) — typically a structured developmental history, a clinical interview, and standardised tools (e.g. ADOS-2, DISCO, or equivalents). Most are now delivered via secure video.
›Will I get a written report?
Yes. A diagnostic letter and report normally go to you and to your GP, including any recommendations for reasonable adjustments at work or in education.
›Does diagnosis include ADHD too?
Co-occurring assessment is increasingly common but not automatic. Tell the provider at referral if you also want an ADHD assessment so they can plan a combined pathway where they offer one.