A report has criticised an NHS ADHD and autism assessment pilot saying it is not getting people the diagnoses they need.
In a Healthwatch York report on Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board’s (HNYICB) new pilot scheme, Do-It Profiler, to assess people who may have ADHD or autism, the watchdog made several recommendations to improve the service.
Healthwatch York spoke to users of the Do-It Profiler, many of whom were worried that without an official diagnosis, the assessor itself won’t help them get the extra support they need.
One user is quoted as saying: “The report was very useful for identifying ADHD and dyspraxia as things I should definitely look into, as well as questions about dyslexia and dyscalculia. However, it did not tell me anything new in terms of coping mechanisms, strategies or techniques.”
Another said: “I know these things already; [it is] completely useless to me. I need a diagnosis.”
Others quoted said they were worried that without an official diagnosis, their employers wouldn’t accept they needed extra help.
Emily Douse, deputy manager at Healthwatch York, said: “We are pleased to hear some things are changing and will continue to capture the experiences of people and professionals for the rest of the pilot.”
Hilary Conroy, from York Disability Rights Forum, added: “We believe NHS leaders are making decisions behind closed doors without the input of the people affected.
“We urge them to listen to and openly communicate with the people they are there to serve.
“Our community deserves better than this.”