NHS vs Private, Autism & ADHD Assessments: What Parents Need to Know

Understanding the Key Differences: NHS vs Private Assessments

Both NHS and private assessments follow NICE guidelines and aim to provide a reliable diagnosis, but they differ significantly in terms of timelines, access, and flexibility.

🏥 NHS Assessments:

• Free of charge, available through CAMHS or local paediatric services

• Delivered by multi-disciplinary teams (paediatricians, psychologists, SLTs, OTs)

• Use gold-standard tools such as ADOS-2, 3Di, or SNAP questionnaires

• Waiting times can range from 12 to 36+ months, depending on your local area

• Access to follow-up services may be limited due to demand

  
  

🕒 Private Assessments:

• Fast-track appointments, often available within 4–6 weeks

• Carried out by registered professionals (HCPC, GMC, etc.)

• Reports are usually accepted by GPs, schools, EHCP panels, and local authorities

• More time is dedicated to understanding your child’s unique profile and needs

  
  

Are Private Assessments Recognised by the NHS?

Yes—as long as they are conducted by qualified clinicians using validated tools and meeting national guidelines. At Clinic Autism, we ensure that every assessment meets or exceeds NHS standards, and our diagnostic reports are:

• Recognised by schools and SEN departments for EHCP applications

• Accepted by NHS GPs and mental health services for continuity of care

• Detailed, evidence-based, and tailored with clear next steps and recommendations

Why Are NHS Waiting Times So Long?

Demand for neurodevelopmental assessments has skyrocketed in recent years, but NHS capacity hasn’t kept up. Many families face:

• 12 to 24 months (or more) just to receive an initial screening

• Delays in completing full diagnostic evaluations

• Limited or no post-diagnostic support due to overwhelmed services

These delays can affect your child’s mental health, education, and access to early intervention, which is often crucial for long-term outcomes.

Is a Private Assessment Right for You?

A private assessment may be the best route if:

• You are worried about missing the early signs of autism or ADHD

• Your child is struggling at school, and you need answers quickly

• You want an individualised assessment experience with more flexibility

• You prefer access to bilingual services, cultural understanding, and continuity of care

At Clinic Autism, we offer rapid assessments, multilingual clinicians, and a compassionate team ready to support you every step of the way—from diagnosis to therapy, school reports, and beyond.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Whether you choose the NHS or a private provider, the most important factor is the quality and depth of the assessment. Look for services that include:

• A comprehensive developmental history

• Standardised diagnostic tools (e.g. ADOS-2, 3Di-5, DIVA-5)

• Input from a multi-disciplinary team

• A clear, accessible report with recommendations for home, school, and therapy

If NHS waiting times are too long or your concerns are urgent, a private assessment can offer both speed and clinical excellence.

📞 Ready to get started? Contact Clinic Autism today for a free initial consultation.