Private clinics' aggressive marketing blamed for surge in UK ADHD and autism diagnoses

In a BMJ commentary, autism pioneer Uta Frith and clinical psychologist Naomi Fisher warned that private clinics are driving the dramatic rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses through aggressive marketing aimed at people seeking self-understanding. They contend that many assessments are performed by less qualified staff, compromising diagnostic accuracy. Private providers now deliver over half of NHS-funded ADHD assessments and a third of autism assessments, a shift caused by insufficient NHS capacity and the Right to Choose policy that lets patients opt for approved private options.

A recent report led by Peter Fonagy highlighted the societal costs of overdiagnosis, noting that children diagnosed with ADHD before age 17 are far less likely to be in education or employment later, costing taxpayers heavily. The experts call for stricter regulation and clearer diagnostic criteria, while Health Secretary Yvette Cooper announced plans to place all assessments under CQC regulation to protect patients and public funds.