Right to Choose ADHD assessment in Edinburgh
Right to Choose is a legal right under the NHS Constitution that only applies in England. Edinburgh patients (in Scotland) cannot use it, but have other routes — here's what they are.
Why Right to Choose doesn't work in Edinburgh
Right to Choose is enshrined in the NHS Constitution for England. Scotland has its own NHS structure and does not operate the same patient-choice mechanism for ADHD assessment. Edinburgh patients have three real options: wait on the NHS list, pay for private assessment, or use a private assessment followed by GP shared care.
Edinburgh's NHS route
Edinburgh sits under NHS Lothian, where adult ADHD assessment demand has risen sharply and waits through the NHS pathway are long. Important: NHS Right to Choose is an England-only right — it does not apply in Scotland. Edinburgh residents' realistic routes are the NHS Lothian pathway via GP referral, or a private assessment. Most providers in our comparison assess Scottish residents online, with some in-person options in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Private adult ADHD assessments for Scottish residents typically cost £500–£1,500; check each provider assesses patients in Scotland and, if you want NHS prescribing afterwards, ask your GP practice about shared-care acceptance, which varies across Lothian. Check your local health board's website for the current NHS adult ADHD wait figure.
Private route + shared care
Most Edinburgh patients who don't want to wait years go private and then arrange NHS shared care with their GP. Once shared care is in place, you pay only the standard NHS prescription charge for medication. Use the comparison to pick a provider that supports shared care.
Frequently asked
- Why can't I use Right to Choose in Edinburgh?
- Right to Choose is an NHS England policy. Scotland has a separate NHS structure that does not operate the same scheme.
- What's the alternative to Right to Choose for Edinburgh patients?
- Either wait on the NHS list, pay privately, or use private assessment followed by GP shared care for ongoing prescriptions.
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