An autism or ADHD diagnosis without access to treatment is a hollow outcome | Letter

Helen Macdonald weighs in on a report by the parliamentary and health service ombudsman, revealing a troubling trend of more than 200% increase in complaints regarding autism and ADHD care in England over the past five years (Autism and ADHD care complaints more than triple in five years in England, 26 August). The issues highlighted are all too familiar, with complaints years-long, patients paying hefty sums for private care while the NHS fails them, and a system so convoluted that individuals are often deprived of legally guaranteed rights.

The British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) has long documented and raised awareness about these very issues.

However, the ombudsman's report falls short in addressing what transpires after a person is assessed and diagnosed with ADHD or autism. Regrettably, numerous individuals receive a diagnosis only to discover that there is no evidence-based treatment pathway available. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for the anxiety and depression that frequently coexist with neurodevelopmental conditions, and for certain circumstances, adults with ADHD itself.

Yet, workforce shortages mean that while the clinical expertise exists, the capacity to provide such care is often lacking.

Macdonald emphasizes that a diagnosis devoid of access to suitable treatment is a hollow outcome, underscoring the urgent need for improved support systems to ensure the well-being of those affected by autism and ADHD.