Independent guidance for England · Content version: 1 November 2026Pre-launch review
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Future regulation announced for diagnosis-only ADHD and autism services

CQC announced that DHSC has asked it to regulate diagnosis-only ADHD and autism services once new regulations are in place. Current published scope guidance still distinguishes diagnosis without treatment from services that also provide treatment. The announcement does not itself create a new registration duty.

Announced — legislation required
EnglandContent version: 1 November 2026Independent guidance

Who this affects

  • ADHD assessment services
  • Autism diagnostic services
  • Independent mental-health providers

What to do now

  • Document whether the actual service includes treatment as well as diagnosis.
  • Apply current scope guidance to present activities.
  • Monitor the regulations and implementation arrangements before changing the status of a diagnosis-only service.

Sources and dates

  1. cqc.org.uk — Cqc regulate autism and adhd diagnostic assessments (opens in a new tab)
  2. cqc.org.uk — Diagnostic and screening procedures (opens in a new tab)

Source/update date: 2026-10-09. Content version: 1 November 2026. Next scheduled content review: 1 December 2026.

Read the status first. A consultation, announcement or pilot does not by itself change a legal obligation. Use the linked source to confirm the requirement that applies to your service.
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Related guidance and next steps

Content version: . Named expert review remains pending for public launch.

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