Right to Choose: Faster Autism Assessment at NHS Cost
Right to Choose is a legal right under the NHS Constitution that allows you to choose which provider carries out your autism assessment, at no cost to you. Instead of waiting 2 to 5 years on the NHS list, you can request a referral to an approved private provider and typically receive your assessment within 3 to 12 months.
What Is Right to Choose?
Section 3.5 of the NHS Constitution states that patients have the right to choose their healthcare provider for their first outpatient appointment with a service. This applies to autism assessments in England. When your GP refers you, you can request that the referral goes to an eligible private provider rather than the local NHS autism service.
The assessment is paid for by your local Integrated Care Board (ICB, formerly Clinical Commissioning Group). You do not pay anything out of pocket.
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How to Request Right to Choose
Book a GP appointment
Tell your GP you would like a referral for an autism assessment and that you wish to exercise your Right to Choose. Bring any screening results or notes about your experiences.
Name your chosen provider
Tell your GP which provider you want to be referred to. Eligible providers include Psychiatry-UK, Clinical Partners, and others registered on the e-Referral Service (e-RS). Check the provider accepts Right to Choose referrals for your ICB area.
Follow up
After the referral is submitted, the provider will contact you to confirm receipt and give you an estimated waiting time. Keep a record of the referral date and any correspondence.
If Your GP Is Reluctant
Some GPs are unfamiliar with Right to Choose or may be hesitant to make the referral. If this happens:
- Reference Section 3.5 of the NHS Constitution directly
- Offer to provide the provider's referral form or contact details
- Ask the GP to contact your local ICB for clarification
- If the GP still refuses, contact the practice manager or your ICB directly
- You can also contact the provider yourself to ask how they handle cases where GPs are reluctant
The referral process can be stressful, especially if you're already experiencing autistic burnout. Preparing a written summary of your concerns before your GP appointment can reduce the cognitive load on the day.
Right to Choose vs Private Assessment
Right to Choose
- Free (NHS-funded)
- 3-12 month wait
- England only
- Requires GP referral
- Diagnosis recognised by NHS
Private Assessment
- £800-£2,500+
- 1-8 week wait
- UK-wide
- Self-referral possible
- Diagnosis recognised by NHS
For more detail on all pathways, see our complete guide to adult autism diagnosis in the UK.
How AskSheldon Helps
AskSheldon provides free autism screening tools that can help you prepare evidence for your GP appointment. Having screening results and documented examples of autistic traits strengthens your referral request. Chat with Sheldon to explore your experiences, or browse our autism information pages while you wait.
Should I Use Right to Choose? A Quick Decision Guide
Not sure if Right to Choose applies to your situation? Work through this flowchart to find your next step.
While navigating the referral process, our guide to autistic burnout can help you recognise and manage the emotional toll. For parents navigating the diagnosis process for a child, see our parent's guide to autism diagnosis for guidance specific to the child pathway, including CAMHS referrals and school-based support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Right to Choose for autism diagnosis?
Right to Choose is a legal right under the NHS Constitution (Section 3.5) that allows patients in England to choose which provider carries out their NHS-funded assessment. For autism, this means you can request a referral to a private provider like Psychiatry-UK instead of waiting on the NHS list, at no extra cost to you.
Is Right to Choose free?
Yes. Right to Choose assessments are fully funded by the NHS. You do not pay anything. The cost is covered by your local Integrated Care Board (ICB), the same body that would fund your NHS assessment.
Can my GP refuse Right to Choose?
GPs should not refuse a Right to Choose request, as it is a legal entitlement under the NHS Constitution. However, some GPs are unfamiliar with the process. If your GP is reluctant, you can reference Section 3.5 of the NHS Constitution and ask them to contact your ICB for guidance. You can also complain to the practice manager or your ICB.
Does Right to Choose work in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
No. Right to Choose is an England-only entitlement under the NHS Constitution. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have separate healthcare systems with different referral pathways. Check with your local health board for alternative options.
How long does a Right to Choose autism assessment take?
Waiting times through Right to Choose providers vary but are typically 3 to 12 months, compared to 2 to 5 years on most NHS waiting lists. Some providers may have shorter or longer waits depending on demand.
Last updated: March 2026
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