Following a parliamentary and health service ombudsman's report, Helen Macdonald, Senior Clinical Adviser at the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP), has highlighted a significant gap in treatment for individuals diagnosed with ADHD and autism.
The ombudsman's findings, published on 26 August, revealed a more than 200% increase in complaints about autism and ADHD care in England over five years. Issues included long waits, patients paying for private care, and difficulties in accessing legal rights.
Ms Macdonald noted that the ombudsman's report did not fully address the situation post-diagnosis. She stated that many people receive a diagnosis but then find no evidence-based treatment pathway available. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for associated anxiety and depression, and in specific contexts for adults with ADHD, workforce shortages often mean capacity is lacking.
A final report from clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy is anticipated soon, which is expected to inform a new national approach. This approach is urged to cover the entire pathway from recognition to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support, and to ensure services are staffed by clinicians with specialist training.