Revalidation (NHS Right to Choose)

Last updated: January 2026

If you already have an ADHD diagnosis and have been referred to CARE ADHD under the NHS Right to Choose (RTC) pathway, you may be asked to go through a revalidation process before treatment can begin.

We know this can feel confusing or frustrating, especially if you already have a diagnosis. This page explains what revalidation is, why it’s needed, and what to expect.

Under the NHS Right to Choose pathway, assessment and treatment are commissioned as a single combined service. This means that before we can provide NHS-funded treatment, we must ensure there is a clinically valid diagnosis that meets NHS standards.

If your ADHD diagnosis was made:

• Privately, and

• Outside of an NHS Right to Choose provider

we are required to review and revalidate that diagnosis before treatment can safely and appropriately proceed.

Revalidation is not a reassessment by default. In most cases, it is a structured clinical review of existing diagnostic evidence.

Once your referral is received, you’ll be asked to:

• Register on our patient portal

• Upload identification

• Complete revalidation forms

Our clinical team will then review your existing diagnostic report and supporting information to confirm that it meets NHS requirements.

To be accepted for NHS treatment, the diagnosis must show evidence of:

• A confirmed ADHD diagnosis (not a “working” or provisional diagnosis)

• Use of recognised assessment tools (e.g. DIVA, Conners)

• ADHD symptoms present in childhood

• Functional impairment

• Consideration of other mental health conditions

• Assessment carried out by an appropriately trained specialist

We accept diagnoses from many established providers (including Psychiatry-UK, ADHD360, Clinical Partners and others).

Where reports are clear and comprehensive, we aim to validate without unnecessary reassessment.

Sometimes, additional information is required to safely confirm the diagnosis. This might include:

• Questionnaires about current or childhood symptoms

• Physical health information

• Clarification of parts of the original assessment

If this happens, we’ll let you know what’s needed and why.

In a small number of cases, if the existing documentation does not meet NHS standards and cannot be strengthened safely, a new NHS assessment may be required.

If this applies to you, we’ll explain the outcome clearly and guide you through the next steps.

Revalidation is a clinical process and timelines can vary depending on:

• Volume of referrals

• Complexity of documentation

• Whether additional information is needed

• NHS system pressures

We understand waiting can be difficult - particularly when you’re keen to move forward with treatment. Please be reassured that cases are actively tracked and reviewed.

Revalidation ensures that:

• NHS funding rules are followed

• Treatment is clinically safe and appropriate

• Patients receive care that meets national standards

While it can feel like an extra step, it exists to protect patients and ensure treatment can continue without disruption later on.

If you are going through revalidation:

• You have not been forgotten

• Your referral is being actively managed

• The process is about safety and eligibility - not doubting your experience

Thank you for your patience while we complete this important step.