Right to Choose

 

< Back to policies & procedures

Right to Choose refers means patients in England have a legal right to select where and by whom they receive certain NHS treatments, including mental health services. This leads to patients feeling more in control of their healthcare decisions too, reduced waiting times as choosing alternative providers can speed up access to treatment.

What the Right to Choose Covers

  • Hospital or service choice: If the GP refers patients for physical or mental health treatment, they can usually choose the hospital or clinic that they prefer. This includes some private hospitals if they provide NHS services at no extra cost.
  • Mental health care: Since 2018, patients can choose their mental healthcare provider for assessments such as ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This helps reduce long waiting times by allowing access to alternative providers. More information about services in Northamptonshire
  • Shared care: In some cases, the GP and specialist work together to manage ongoing treatment, giving patients more flexibility and continuity of care.

Learn more about Your choices in the NHS