Health leaders in England are raising alarms over spiraling costs for ADHD and autism services, with spending in some regions surging tenfold within a year due to post-pandemic demand. The NHS Alliance, representing health managers, warns that the financial strain is forcing difficult decisions, including closing waiting lists and potentially cutting other services to cope. Experts say the sharp rise in referrals has made the situation unsustainable without urgent action. The pressure highlights growing challenges in meeting demand for mental health support amid stretched resources.
Soaring demand for services has led to tenfold increase in spending in a year in some areas, says NHS AllianceNHS leaders have warned that the costs of meeting soaring demand for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism services in England are “running out of control” and have become unsustainable, with spending in some areas rising by as much as tenfold over the course of a year.The NHS Alliance, which represents health managers, said the rise in demand since the coronavirus pandemic was forcing some to close waiting lists and look at reining in other services they provide. Continue reading...
