To ask the Minister of Health what advice his Department is providing to people who want to use private healthcare for diagnoses of autism or ADHD, specifically around how any such diagnosis will be accepted within the public health system.

HSCB wrote to private health providers and GP’s in June 2021 of their duty to inform patients that there may be ongoing costs associated with their private health care treatment until such time as they are seen by a HSC clinician.

My Officials are currently meeting with Trusts to develop an updated advisory note for those service users accepted onto ASD or ADHD waiting lists explaining the waiting times, and that engaging with a private assessment centre for a diagnosis will not change their position on the waiting list. It will explain that they will be offered an appointment in chronological order of their referral to the appropriate service in line with IEAP guidelines. They will also be advised that they may remain under private health provision, including paying for treatments, such as prescriptions, until they reach their advised appointment date.

With a private diagnosis anyone requesting a prescription, or other support through the HSC, will have to be assessed by the HSC prescribing clinician to assess their medical need.

Trusts will assess the private assessment process against compliance with NICE guidelines. If the assessment complies with NICE it will be accepted and ongoing support will be provided. If the assessment does not meet with NICE guidelines a HSC will complete the diagnosis.

I hope this information is helpful and provides some clarity to you on this matter.