NHS bodies in England impose two-year minimum wait for ADHD and autism assessments
NHS boards in England have implemented a minimum two-year wait for ADHD and autism assessments due to surging demand and budget constraints. Patient advocacy groups have criticized the move as dangerous and harmful to those needing support.
Why it matters
The policy highlights the systemic strain on public healthcare systems and the growing crisis in accessing neurodiversity support services.
A government-commissioned report due to be published next month will highlight up to 24-fold rises in the prevalence of neurodiversity in boys since 2000. Photograph: Gareth Fuller/PA A government-commissioned report due to be published next month will highlight up to 24-fold rises in the prevalence of neurodiversity in boys since 2000. Photograph: Gareth Fuller/PA NHS NHS bodies in England impose two-year minimum wait for ADHD and autism assessments Patient groups decry ‘scandalous’ delays as four integrated care boards take step due to soaring demand for diagnoses
Two-year waiting times highlight NHS struggle with rise in ADHD and autism awareness
Prefer the Guardian on Google NHS bodies are forcing people with suspected attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism to wait at least two years before they can be assessed as they struggle to meet surging demand for diagnoses of neurodiversity.
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