Story perspectives

NHS Faces £164M Overspend Amid ADHD Private Assessment Crisis

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NHS faces a £164 million overspend on ADHD services, funding unregulated private assessments.
A Guardian investigation found private ADHD spending has tripled in three years.
Many patients, including Ryan White, a patient, struggle with the 'right to choose' system, risking continuity of care.
Experts warn that unregulated private assessments can cause misdiagnoses and inadequate treatment.
The NHS has launched an independent review to address these issues.

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Story summary

The NHS faces a £164 million overspend on ADHD services, funding unregulated private assessments.
A Guardian investigation found private ADHD spending has tripled in three years.
Many patients, including Ryan White, a patient, struggle with the 'right to choose' system, risking continuity of care.
Experts warn that unregulated private assessments can cause misdiagnoses and inadequate treatment.
The NHS has launched an independent review to address these issues.