Why Pay for a Private Assessment?
If you have concerns that you or your family member may have Autism Spectrum Disorder you can be referred for an assessment through the NHS. Usually, this involves visiting your GP to discuss your concerns and requesting an onwards referral.
If appropriate, adults may then be referred by their GP to their local assessment centre. Children will usually be referred to a Paediatrician, who will collect screening information before deciding whether to refer on for an assessment.
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In our experience people seek private assessment for the following reasons;
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Timely assessment; Unfortunately, there are extremely long waiting lists for NHS assessment in many parts of the UK. In some areas waiting times can exceed two years.
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A second opinion; If people do not feel confident in the outcome of their NHS assessment, a private assessment allows the opportunity for a different group of specialist clinicians to provide a second opinion.