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NHS Cuts ADHD Assessments, Patients Face Eight-Year Wait

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NHS is limiting ADHD assessments due to budget constraints, a move ADHD UK criticized as cruel.
Many integrated care boards have not informed GPs or patients about these restrictions.
Waiting times can reach up to eight years.
The introduction of indicative activity plans (IAPs) raises concerns about access to care, with a review of rising ADHD diagnoses underway.

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Story summary

The NHS is limiting ADHD assessments due to budget constraints, a move ADHD UK criticized as cruel.
Many integrated care boards have not informed GPs or patients about these restrictions.
Waiting times can reach up to eight years.
The introduction of indicative activity plans (IAPs) raises concerns about access to care, with a review of rising ADHD diagnoses underway.