IMPORTANT UPDATE
We sincerely apologise, but the Oxfordshire Autism Diagnostic Service is currently not able to accept new referrals for autism assessments and diagnosis as of 22/07/2024.
This includes both GP and self referrals.
We have decided to take this step due to steadily increasing very high numbers of referrals and chronic under-funding, leading to a waiting time of over 10 years for recent referrals.
Your GP may be able to refer you to a private service provider via a scheme called Right to Choose.
We are equally frustrated by this and ask that rather than direct your understandable frustrations to OAADSS staff, help us instead by directing your concerns to the commissioners and your MP!
What to do if we Do Not Offer an Assessment/Diagnosis
Disagree with the screening results
Please contact OAADDS to discuss the process with a clinician.
Disagree with outcome of your assessment
You may be able to request a 2nd opinion assessment
- Via the NHS dependent on funding being agreed on a case by case basis
- Via a private clinician
If we are unable to accept your referral because:
You do not live in/are not registered with a GP in Oxfordshire
Our initial advice is always to make an appointment with your GP to discuss the options in your area. Most Autism Diagnostic Services require you to be referred by a GP or other health professional in any case. Here is some information to help you find out about ASC assessments in neighbouring counties to Oxfordshire:
Buckinghamshire: https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/servicedirectory/adult-autism-diagnostic-team-2/
Gloucestershire: https://www.ghc.nhs.uk/our-teams-and-services/asc-service/
Warwickshire: https://www.covwarkpt.nhs.uk/search/text-content/adult-neurodevelopmental-service-1031/
Northamptonshire: https://www.nhft.nhs.uk/adhd-aspergers
You are under the age of 18
If you are under the age of 18 you will need your GP to refer you to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) for an assessment. If you are only a few months away from turning 18 we know that realistically you may not be seen by CAMHS before your 18th birthday, at which point they will discharge you. However, unfortunately we are not able to accept a referral until the client is at least 18. We will be happy to accept a referral from you on or after your 18th birthday.
You are currently under the AMHT (Adult Mental Health Team) or LDT (Learning Disability Team)
The AMHT will be able to make a referral for you via the reasonable adjustment team. Please contact them and ask for a referral to be made.
We are unable to accept any referrals from people under the LDT. The LDT should be able to carry out an autism assessment for you within their team. . This page has the contact information for the Learning Disability Teams.