We recognise that long waiting times for specialist NHS services can be frustrating and that some patients may choose to seek private assessments, particularly for ADHD and Gender Identity (Transgender) Care.
If you are considering private care, please review our policy on Shared Care Agreements (SCAs) below.
What is a Shared Care Agreement?
A Shared Care Agreement (SCA) is a formal arrangement where an NHS General Practitioner (GP) agrees to take over the ongoing prescribing and monitoring of medication that was originally initiated by a private specialist.
Important Information for Patients
- No Automatic Transfer to NHS Prescribing: Seeking a private diagnosis does not guarantee that your GP will agree to prescribe your medication under the NHS.
- Full Clinical Responsibility: When a GP signs a prescription, they accept full legal and clinical liability for your safety. A GP will only consider an SCA if they are completely satisfied that the private consultant’s diagnostic rigor and long-term monitoring protocols meet standard General Medical Council (GMC) safety guidelines.
- Health Board and Practice Policy: Requests for Shared Care are reviewed carefully. Please be aware that due to NHS capacity, clinical governance, and regional NHS Health Board guidance, many GP practices are currently unable to accept private shared care requests.
- Mandatory Follow-Up and Physical Monitoring: Private clinics must provide continuous specialist oversight and regular monitoring (e.g., blood pressure checks, pulse rate, blood tests). If you do not attend your required private follow-up appointments, NHS prescribing will be stopped immediately to ensure your safety.
- Financial Considerations: Please consider the long-term cost of private care before booking an assessment. If a Shared Care Agreement is declined or discontinued, you will remain financially responsible for all private appointments, monitoring fees, and private prescription costs.
How to Request an NHS ADHD Referral
If you wish to be referred to the NHS Adult ADHD service, our GPs require preliminary information to assess your needs and complete a comprehensive referral.
Before booking an initial appointment, please provide a brief “Summary of Concerns” (as a written letter brought to the practice or submitted via our online form).
Please include:
- A brief overview of your current symptoms and how they impact your daily home, work, or social life.
- Details on when your symptoms first began (including any evidence of symptoms in childhood).
- Any supporting information, such as past school reports or observations from family members.
This information will be securely uploaded to your medical record to help guide your GP consultation.