We are happy to refer you for an ADHD assessment under the Right to Choose (RTC) programme. However, prior to your referral there are some things you need to be aware of.
In Hampshire, the ADHD services have a contract which includes starting medication if appropriate, stabilising treatment, monitoring your physical health and reviewing you every year. We then issue your prescriptions under something called a shared care agreement. This ensures that your care is safe, and your prescriptions are not interrupted (except if there are national drug availability issues).
You may be seen sooner under the RTC programme, but it is important that you check the arrangements in place prior to choosing who you want to be referred to. This is because not all organisations will prescribe and stabilise medication, monitor your physical health and review you every year. We cannot do this on their behalf because it is not safe.
Below are questions concerning things to find when deciding on who you want to be referred to. You can usually find it on ADHD UK’s website (https://adhduk.co.uk/right-to-choose) the organisation’s website, or you may need to contact them directly.
The answer to all of these questions needs to be ‘yes’. If the answer to any of the questions is 'no' we will not be able to prescribe your medication. You may wish to choose an alternative provider. We will still refer if you wish, but prescriptions will not be issued by us and may not be available on the NHS from this provider. You may have the option to pay privately, long term. Please check directly with the provider.
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Are they a Right to Choose provider?
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Do they initiate and stabilise medication?
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Do they have a shared care agreement for primary care?
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Does the shared care agreement meet all of the following criteria?
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Annual review by specialist.
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Access to support for GPs in case of query.
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GP monitoring limited to weight, blood pressure, pulse and symptoms.
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GP monitoring no more frequently than every 6 months (except children under 10, where weight needs to be done every 3 months)?
If the answers to all these questions is 'yes' it is likely that we will be able to prescribe your ADHD medication on a shared-care arrangement with this provider.
Please inform us of the name of the provider on the ADHD form and we will make the referral.