Plan to limit diagnoses of ADHD criticised as ‘rationing’ healthcare

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 18, 2026

The UK government is considering a new NHS approach that limits formal ADHD diagnoses to those with severe symptoms, directing resources through a needs-based triage system instead. Critics warn this could lead to reduced access to official diagnoses, increased self-diagnosis via social media, and insufficient support for individuals with milder symptoms.

Proposals to limit formal diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) within the National Health Service (NHS) have drawn criticism from health advocates, who warn such measures could lead to “rationing” of care and increase reliance on self-diagnosis through social media.

The government is expected to release a review recommending that patients exhibiting ADHD symptoms should not automatically undergo formal diagnostic assessments. Instead, individuals would be subject to a triage process aimed at directing NHS resources toward those most severely affected, such as individuals at risk of self-harm or unable to maintain employment. The approach, described as “needs-based,” would offer support according to a holistic evaluation of the patient’s circumstances, potentially bypassing formal diagnosis for people with less acute difficulties.

The review, led by Professor Peter Fonagy, a clinical psychologist at University College London, was commissioned in December by former Health Secretary Wes Streeting amid concerns about the rising number of sickness benefit claims tied to ADHD and similar conditions. Official data indicate that approximately 800,000 people remain on NHS waiting lists for assessment, with complaints concerning autism and ADHD services in England having tripled over the past five years. The ADHD taskforce estimates untreated ADHD costs the economy £17 billion annually. Additionally, an increasing number of individuals with ADHD are not participating in education, employment, or training, with around 100,000 receiving health-related benefits.

Under the proposed system, formal diagnosis and referral to clinics would be reserved for patients expected to benefit from medical interventions, including medication. Others would receive targeted early support based on their ability to function in educational or workplace settings. Suggested supports include one-on-one assistance for children in schools, provision of quiet spaces, parent education programs, and encouragement for employers to offer flexible working arrangements.

The final report is also anticipated to recommend a similar needs-based, holistic framework for people with autism and broader mental health conditions.

However, the proposals have faced pushback from experts and advocacy groups. Henry Shelford, chief executive of ADHD UK, described the review as a form of rationing that fails to acknowledge the clinical threshold required for diagnosis. He warned that without formal diagnostic pathways, individuals might turn to social media platforms like TikTok for self-identification, leaving schools and employers ill-equipped to provide necessary accommodations. Shelford highlighted the serious health risks associated with ADHD, citing research indicating that women with the disorder have a life expectancy nine years shorter than peers, with men seven years shorter.

Mel Merritt, head of policy and influencing at the National Autistic Society, expressed concern that restricting access to diagnosis would exacerbate existing inequalities faced by those with autism and ADHD.

The government has not issued an official statement regarding the forthcoming report.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.