NHS Bosses Warn ADHD, Autism Care Could Tip Into Chaos as Costs Jump 10-Fold
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 28
NHS Bosses Warn ADHD, Autism Care Could Tip Into Chaos as Costs Jump 10-Fold
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Aug 28
Summary
NHS Alliance leaders said autism and ADHD services risk sliding into chaos as local boards face surging bills and struggle to oversee a fast-growing market of non-NHS providers.
One board's spending rose 10-fold to £1.5 million a month, while another's annual bill jumped from £4 million to £30 million in two years.
The alliance said right-to-choose rules have helped patients bypass long waits but also fueled an influx of providers, with one board using 48 providers—four times as many as two years earlier.
Charges vary sharply because autism and ADHD services lack fixed tariffs: one health board paid £300 to £3,000 for similar care, and assessment-only providers do not have to register with the care regulator.
The government said an independent review will be published soon and promised a new national approach for autism, ADHD and mental health.