Help Centre
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are our most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, or would like an update on your assessment, please contact us using the “Get in Touch” button.
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What diagnostic tools are used during the assessment?
We use gold-standard tools recommended by NICE, including the ADOS-2 and ADI-R. These are delivered by our experienced multidisciplinary team to ensure a high level of clinical accuracy.
What ages do you assess for autism?
We assess both adults and children aged 5 and above for autism. For younger children aged 5–7, appointments are carried out in person, while older children and adults may have a combination of in-person and remote assessments.
Do you consider how factors like masking can affect how autism presents?
Yes. Our clinicians are specially trained to recognise how autism can present differently, including the impact of masking, and take this into account throughout the assessment process.
Do you offer second opinion assessments for patients who already have an NHS or Right to Choose diagnosis?
We are not commissioned to complete second opinion assessments where a patient has already had an NHS or RTC assessment. If the outcome we provide is contended, you will need to speak with your GP about local second opinion pathways and procedures.
Can I access the Right to Choose service more than once?
No. Once you have received a diagnosis through the Right to Choose pathway, this cannot currently be repeated. If you need further support, you should speak with your GP about other available services. Alternatively, you may choose to access our services privately.
What is the NHS Right to Choose pathway?
The Right to Choose is a legal right for patients in England. It allows you to choose your mental health provider meaning you can access our specialist assessments fully funded by the NHS.
Who is eligible for Right to Choose assessments?
Anyone living in England who is registered with an NHS GP practice is eligible to request a referral to our service under this pathway. We offer autism assessments for both adults and children aged 5 and above through the NHS Right to Choose pathway.
Is your service commissioned by the NHS?
Yes, we are fully commissioned by the NHS to carry out autism assessment for adults and children in England. Our reports will be recognised for school/colleges and the EHCP process.
What are your wait times for Right to Choose?
Our current Right to Choose wait time is approximately 14–16 weeks. Please note this is a minimum and may vary depending on your local Integrated Care Board (ICB). Timelines begin once we have received all completed questionnaires and required information. We will keep patients updated in line with ICB guidance. Please also check our website regularly for the most up-to-date waiting time information.
How do I check where I am on the waiting list?
If you would like an update on your current position or progress, please contact us using the “Get in Touch” button and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Does my child’s school send a referral to you or my GP?
No. Referrals must come from your GP. Once we receive this and you provide school details, we will contact the education setting directly to complete our questionnaire.
Can I choose whether my assessment is online or in-person?
Most assessments are delivered online for flexibility, with face-to-face appointments available on request in Chichester or Oxfordshire. For children aged 5–7, in-person appointments are required to ensure an accurate assessment. Online appointments require access to a suitable device, such as a laptop or tablet with a camera - mobile phones are not suitable.
Can I refer myself?
No, self-referral is not available. You will need to speak with your GP, who can make a referral to our service if appropriate. Alternatively, you can access our services privately without a GP referral.
I am having trouble completing the questionnaire, what should I do?
If you are experiencing any difficulties completing the questionnaire, please contact us using the “Get in Touch” button. Our team will be happy to support you.
Do you offer ADHD assessments via Right to Choose?
Not at present. ADHD assessments are currently available through our private, self-funded service only. We are actively developing our ADHD Right to Choose pathway and plan to launch this service later in 2026.
I am an adult, what does the informant mean?
An 'informant' is someone who knows you well and who can be part of your autism assessment. Ideally this is a parent/guardian who knew you age 4-5. If this is not possible for you, an 'informant' can be a partner or friend who knows you well.
Are Right to Choose assessments completely free?
Yes. If you are eligible and referred correctly by your GP the entire assessment process is fully funded by the NHS with no cost to you.
How do I get a referral for Right to Choose?
To access an autism assessment under the NHS “Right to Choose” pathway, you will need to ask your GP to make a referral to KT Healthcare. Bring details of our service to your appointment and request to be referred to us specifically for an autism assessment. Once your GP submits the referral, our team will review it and contact you with the next steps.
My child is home educated, will this affect their assessment?
No. We will gather information from other settings your child spends time in, such as groups, clubs, or time with relatives or friends, to support a thorough assessment.
How will I know when you have received my referral?
Once we receive your referral, our referrals team will review the information provided. If we need any additional information from your GP, this may slightly delay your referral progressing. After your referral has been processed, we will send you a questionnaire pack by email. We aim to process all referrals and issue questionnaires within one month of receipt.
Will my child’s school or local authority accept a private autism diagnosis?
Yes. Our clinicians are fully HCPC registered and follow NHS and NICE guidelines. Our comprehensive diagnostic reports are widely recognised and accepted by schools and local authorities.