HCT - Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessm

Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) currently has a backlog of children awaiting an autism diagnostic assessment.

To address this, HCT is collaborating with the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board to outsource assessments for some children and young people (CYP).

This initiative aims to reduce waiting times and support the implementation of a revised diagnostic pathway. The Trust is inviting proposals from suitably qualified providers to conduct assessments for CYPs aged five and above.

The selected provider must deliver a high-quality, cost-effective service that is responsive to clients' needs and help clear the backlog while also offering ongoing assessment services as needed. Key requirements include:

• A multidisciplinary team that includes Consultant Paediatricians/Paediatricians.
• Appropriate Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration.
• A blended approach to assessments, with face-to-face and virtual consultations (face-to-face only for children aged five and six).
• Robust contract management and effective collaboration with the Trust’s key contacts.

The contract is expected to commence in early September 2025 for an initial one-year term, with the possibility of two one-year extensions (1+1).