HCT - Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessment

Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) currently has a backlog of children awaiting an autism diagnostic assessment.<br/><br/>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).<br/><br/>This initiative aims to reduce waiting times and support the implementation of a revised diagnostic pathway.<br/>The Trust is inviting proposals from suitably qualified providers to conduct assessments for CYPs aged five and above.<br/><br/>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.<br/>Key requirements include:<br/>• A multidisciplinary team that includes Consultant Paediatricians/Paediatricians.<br/>• Appropriate Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration.<br/>• A blended approach to assessments, with face-to-face and virtual consultations (face-to-face only for children aged five and six).<br/>• Robust contract management and effective collaboration with the Trust’s key contacts.<br/><br/>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).