Is a private ADHD assessment recognised by the NHS?

If you’ve booked or are considering an ADHD assessment through Mentalwell, you might be wondering: Will the NHS recognise this diagnosis? The good news is that, yes, private ADHD assessments carried out by Mentalwell are often accepted by NHS services and GPs, but there are a few things to be aware of.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how private assessments fit into the NHS system, how your GP might respond to your diagnosis, and what happens when it comes to treatment and prescriptions.

Is a Mentalwell ADHD Diagnosis Valid for the NHS?

Yes, at Mentalwell, all assessments are carried out by qualified psychiatrists who are:

• Registered with the General Medical Council (GMC)

• Experienced in ADHD diagnosis and treatment

• Work to recognised clinical standards, including NICE guidelines

This means your Mentalwell assessment is not only thorough it also meets the standards GPs and NHS providers expect and is therefore a valid diagnosis for the NHS

Will My GP Accept My Diagnosis?

In most cases, yes. Many GPs are familiar with private ADHD assessments and are willing to accept diagnoses made by reputable providers like Mentalwell. Your clinician’s report will include:

• Your diagnosis and its severity

• The criteria used to make the diagnosis

• A summary of your assessment and symptom history

While every GP has discretion, most will acknowledge a well-documented diagnosis from a regulated provider.

Will My GP Prescribe ADHD Medication Based on This?

This depends on whether your GP is happy to enter into a Shared Care Agreement.

After your assessment, if you’re eligible and choose to begin medication, Mentalwell offers a structured titration process, where our clinicians work with you to find the right type and dose of medication. Once treatment is stabilised, we can provide a Shared Care Agreement proposal to your GP.

If your GP agrees, they can take over prescribing and monitoring going forward. However, not all practices are able to participate in shared care, as this may be influenced by local NHS policies or your GP’s individual position. 

What If My GP Isn’t Able to Prescribe?

If your GP is unable to continue your ADHD treatment on the NHS, you still have several options:

• Continue privately through Mentalwell: You can receive prescriptions and monitoring directly from our team.

• Ask for an NHS referral: Your GP can refer you to an NHS ADHD service using your Mentalwell report as supporting evidence.

• Discuss further: In some cases, your GP may reconsider if provided with additional information from your Mentalwell clinician.

Our team can assist with all of these options to ensure your care remains consistent and accessible.

Can I Still Access Other NHS or Workplace Support?

Yes. A diagnosis from Mentalwell can help you:

• Access reasonable adjustments at work or university

• Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)

• Support applications for benefits or additional support services

• Share relevant health information with other providers

Your outcome letter is a formal clinical document that can be used in the same way as an NHS report.

Summary

Here’s what to know if you’re considering or completing an ADHD assessment with Mentalwell:

• Your diagnosis will be valid and often accepted by the NHS

• GPs may enter Shared Care Agreements once your treatment is stabilised

• If not, we can continue prescribing privately

• Your assessment letter can be used to access workplace, academic, or wider support

Final Thoughts

We understand that navigating ADHD diagnosis and treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to coordinate between private and NHS services. Our goal is to make this process as smooth and supportive as possible. At Mentalwell, we’re committed to providing fast access to qualified ADHD clinicians, a clear and thorough assessment, an official summary letter upon completion, ongoing support during and after your diagnosis, and guidance on next steps.

If you’re unsure about how your Mentalwell diagnosis will be received or need help discussing it with your GP, just let us know; we’re here to help.