We recognise that long waiting times for specialist NHS services can be frustrating. We understand that many patients may choose to access private clinics for timely assessment and treatment, particularly regarding ADHD and Gender Identity (Transgender) Care.
Important Information on Shared Care Agreements
A “Shared Care Agreement” (SCA) is a formal arrangement where a GP takes over the prescribing of medication initiated by a specialist. Please be aware of the following:
- No Guarantee of Prescribing: Choosing to seek a private diagnosis does not guarantee that the NHS will provide ongoing prescriptions.
- Clinical Responsibility: When a GP signs a prescription, they take full legal and clinical responsibility for it. We will only enter into a Shared Care Agreement if we are satisfied that the private consultant’s assessment and monitoring protocols meet the GMC Guidance on Shared Care.
- Case-by-Case Basis: Requests for shared care are reviewed individually. We consider the expertise of the private practitioner, the robustness of the diagnosis, and the long-term monitoring plan.
- Mandatory Monitoring: Private clinics must provide regular follow-up and monitoring (e.g., blood tests, physical checks). Failure to attend these private reviews will result in the immediate cessation of NHS prescribing to ensure patient safety.
Financial Considerations
Patients should consider the long-term financial implications of private care. If a Shared Care Agreement is declined or terminated, you will be responsible for the cost of private prescriptions and any associated specialist fees.
How to Request an ADHD Referral
To help our GPs provide a comprehensive assessment and facilitate a potential referral, we ask that you provide a “Summary of Concerns” before your initial appointment.
You can do this by:
- Bringing a letter to your appointment.
Please include:
- A brief outline of your current symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
- Information on when you first suspected you had ADHD (e.g., symptoms present in childhood).
- Any relevant history from school reports or family members.
This information will be securely stored in your medical file and allows for a more focused discussion during your consultation.