NHS bosses warn of chaos in ADHD and autism care
NHS bosses are warning that the autism and ADHD care system is facing chaos due to spiraling costs and inconsistent pricing from private providers. The surge in demand, coupled with the 'right to choose' policy, has led to significant budget strain for local health boards.
Why it matters
The crisis highlights the challenges of integrating private sector providers into public healthcare systems and the urgent need for standardized national oversight.
Image source, Getty Images By Nick Triggle Health correspondent Published 7 minutes ago Autism and ADHD care is at risk of descending into chaos, NHS bosses are warning, as costs spiral out of control and unregulated private providers capitalise on the huge demand for help.
The NHS Alliance, which represents health managers, says the current system represents a "bad deal" for patients and taxpayers alike.
It points to big variations in what the NHS is being charged for assessments and care - in one case, a local health board was paying £300 to £3,000 for similar services.
The group says there has been a rapid expansion in new providers – both private firms and charities are involved - and NHS managers are struggling to ensure the quality and safety of care being provided.
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