People diagnosed with ADHD or autism can still be left without an evidence-based route to treatment, according to a response to an ombudsman’s report. Guardian Health published Helen Macdonald’s response, which says the issue extends beyond assessment and diagnosis. Macdonald is senior clinical adviser at the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies, known as BABCP.
The parliamentary and health service ombudsman found that complaints about autism and ADHD care had risen by more than 200% over five years. The response also points to lengthy waits, private-care bills running into thousands of pounds and a complicated system that can prevent people receiving rights to which they are legally entitled. However, Macdonald argues that the report does not fully examine what support follows a diagnosis.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety and depression commonly linked with neurodevelopmental conditions, and in particular circumstances for adults with ADHD. Workforce shortages can leave services without enough capacity to provide that care, even when clinicians want to do so. Macdonald says a diagnosis without suitable treatment does not amount to a complete outcome.
A final report from clinical psychologist Prof Peter Fonagy is expected soon and is intended to inform a new national approach. The proposed approach should cover the route from recognition through diagnosis and treatment to continuing support, rather than focusing only on waits for assessment. The response also calls for specialist clinicians and action on the regulatory gap identified by the ombudsman.