CAMPAIGNERS urged the government today to save money by investing directly in NHS services after a report revealed that private treatment of autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is costing one health board “three times more” than its own equivalent. 

Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) found that the use of independent providers under “right to choose” rules was expected to have cost £3 million in 2024-25, according to a review obtained by the Health Service Journal (HSJ).

Under the rules, patients have the legal right to choose where they receive treatment, including at private providers that hold an NHS contract.