Can I request a formal ADHD screening request even if the doctor says no?

PostedOctober 16, 2025

UpdatedOctober 16, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, you can still make a formal ADHD screening request even if your doctor initially refuses. Although GPs have medical discretion, you are entitled to ask for a second opinion or a different referral pathway. Knowing your rights can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Some patients are surprised when their GP says no, but being denied ADHD testing does not mean you have no options. In fact, depending on your location, you may be able to request assessment through alternative mental health services. Your patient rights ADHD include the right to question decisions, ask for written reasons, and seek further support if needed.

Common Symptoms

Inattention and distractibility

This can look like struggling to focus on conversations, zoning out during tasks, or forgetting simple things, even with effort.

Hyperactivity or internal restlessness

You may constantly feel on edge, fidgety, or unable to sit still, even when you try to relax.

Impulsive behaviour

This might include speaking out of turn, interrupting, or acting quickly without thinking through the consequences.

Disorganised thinking and time issues

Tasks can feel overwhelming, deadlines slip by, and planning often feels like it takes more energy than it should.

If you feel these symptoms reflect your daily experience, it’s reasonable to pursue a formal ADHD screening request. Keep records, ask questions, and remember that being denied ADHD testing once doesn’t mean the journey ends there.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.