How do I request a referral for an ADHD or Autism assessment?
If you would like a referral for an ADHD and/or Autism assessment, please submit a request using our online form.
Before we can make a referral, we need some information from you. This information is required by assessment providers and helps ensure your referral is processed as smoothly and quickly as possible.
Once we receive your request, we will arrange a routine appointment with a GP. Please make sure you complete and submit the required documents before your appointment.
Completed documents can be:
- Submitted via our online form
- Handed in at reception
- Emailed to us at lionhealth.cso@nhs.net
These documents will be added to your (or your child’s) medical record so that the GP can review them before your appointment.
What information do I need to provide?
1. Complete the relevant questionnaire(s)
Adults
Autism Assessment
- AQ50 Questionnaire
ADHD Assessment
- ASRS Questionnaire
Children and young people (under 16 years)
Autism assessment
AQ10 (Child/Adolescent) questionnaire
ADHD Assessment
If you or your child are requesting both an ADHD and an Autism assessment, please complete both questionnaires.
2. Provide any supporting information
Useful supporting information may include:
- School reports (current or historic)
- Letters from family members describing behaviours in childhood and/or adulthood
- Previous private assessments, reports, or diagnoses
3. Complete the referral information form
Please complete the referral information form here
This form asks for additional information required for your or your child’s referral.
Choosing a referral provider
Information about available providers can be found here:
Right to Choose referrals for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) – Black Country ICB
Many patients choose a Right to Choose provider because waiting times are often shorter than those for NHS neurodevelopmental services.
Important things to check when choosing a provider
Before selecting a provider, please make sure that they:
- Assess the correct condition (ADHD and/or Autism)
- Assess the appropriate age group (adult or child)
- Offer treatment and ongoing management as well as diagnosis
If medication is recommended:
- The specialist must start and stabilise the medication before the practice can take over prescribing.
- A formal Shared Care Agreement must be in place with the provider.
- You will need an annual review with the specialist while taking medication.
Please note: If you choose a provider that offers diagnosis only, Lion Health will not be able to start treatment. If you later decide you would like medication, you may need a new referral to another provider.
Who cannot use Right to Choose?
You cannot use Right to Choose if you:
- Are already receiving mental health care for the same condition
- Have been referred to a service commissioned by a local authority (for example, drug or alcohol services)
- Are receiving urgent or crisis mental health care
- Are accessing services through a primary care contract
- Are in a high-secure psychiatric service or detained under the Mental Health Act 1983
- Are currently serving in the Armed Forces