Story perspectives

Growing ADHD Treatment Waitlists Strain NHS Resources

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Waiting lists for ADHD treatment in England are growing as patients return to National Health Service (NHS) care.
A National Health Service (NHS) trust says patients referred to private clinics face treatment gaps due to guideline non-compliance.
Some patients incur high prescription costs after GPs withdraw shared care agreements.
The government acknowledges referral management challenges and notes the right to choose pathway lacks clear standards and can cause distress.

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Story summary

Waiting lists for ADHD treatment in England are growing as patients return to National Health Service (NHS) care.
A National Health Service (NHS) trust says patients referred to private clinics face treatment gaps due to guideline non-compliance.
Some patients incur high prescription costs after GPs withdraw shared care agreements.
The government acknowledges referral management challenges and notes the right to choose pathway lacks clear standards and can cause distress.