ADHD Services in NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB

In the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB area, you can access ADHD assessment through three routes: (1) NHS pathway via your GP — current average wait is approximately 45 weeks; (2) NHS Right to Choose — your GP refers you to an approved private provider at NHS cost, typically 2-12 weeks; (3) Private assessment — self-funded, usually 1-8 weeks wait, costs £400-£2,500.

Yes, but with restrictions. The NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB ICB has placed funding caps on RTC referrals, which may mean longer waits than usual through this route. Your GP can still make the referral — it is your legal right — but the ICB is limiting how many assessments it funds per period.

The average wait for an NHS ADHD assessment in NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB is approximately 45 weeks (10 months). This is based on data from RTC provider wait lists. Individual experiences vary by GP surgery and referral pathway.

A shared care agreement (SCA) is an arrangement where a specialist (private or NHS) diagnoses and stabilises your ADHD medication, then your GP takes over ongoing prescribing. Most GPs accept SCAs, but some refuse — particularly for privately diagnosed patients. If your GP refuses, you can request they document the refusal and you can complain to the ICB or seek another GP.