Changes to the pathway for ADHD assessment in MK

Advice and Information - 23 April 2026

The pathway to neurodiversity care is changing: here's what you need to know.
A woman wearing a turquoise top sitting down with her laptop. She is wearing headphones. A white and brown dog is sitting next to her.

From April 2026, adults in Milton Keynes can choose their NHS ADHD assessment provider, and your GP should support you to use this right. 

If you need an ADHD assessment, you now have to request a referral to a service provider that you have chosen yourself, and one that holds a valid NHS contract. Until now, patients were automatically referred to Psychiatry UK. These changes are part of the Right to Choose initiative. You can find a suitable provider by searching online for terms such as “Right to Choose ADHD adult providers with an NHS contract”. Service provider websites will clearly state if they accept NHS Right to Choose referrals and will usually include waiting times and other key information so that you can make an informed choice. 

These changes are designed to give people more control, reduce long waits, and make it easier to access assessment and diagnosis.

Alongside this, a new neurodiversity pathway for the Central East Integrated Care Board (ICB) is being developed. This will set out how local services will work in the future for ADHD, autism and other neurodivergent needs. More information will be shared once the pathway is finalised.

You might also be interested in

Jess's Rule: tips for patients

We've heard from a number of residents looking for support so they can confidently exercise their rights under Jess's Rule.
Find out more

A National Cancer Plan for England

The Government has published its National Cancer Plan. We explore what the plan means for patients in Milton Keynes.
Find out more