adhd private assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and will rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. They can also request old school reports and other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting years to visit psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognized as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has significant impact on the lives of people. In some areas waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The issue is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and a rise in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults requesting an assessment has grown exponentially, and is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults and are better able to comprehend the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to misdiagnose the condition. The issue came to the public's attention when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper process. Some have claimed that the program is spreading stigma and stereotyping about people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who require this help are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS needs to work out ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with an organization, or request an assessment from a private psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but do not include a prescription.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek out a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can aid in managing your symptoms and prescribe medication. You could also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Private clinics often offer diagnosis and titration. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults with ADHD as well as women and men. They can also screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however the waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment and then have follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a particular interest in ADHD. The initial appointment will typically involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires and you may be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time as well as titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation revealed a number instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD and then withdrawn. This is a serious problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to be wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's important to check if you have coverage.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform an assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the diagnostic criteria. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at home and work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring an adult or a relative to help you through the process. The examination will typically take a few sessions to establish a diagnosis. Some clinics will provide a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought the issue to the fore. The reporter on the programme was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his doctor insisted that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs are only able to refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs are unwilling to sign an agreement for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the patient's care to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the care they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment request them to refer you. You can determine your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health service or by using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service which will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It aids people in understanding their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It also helps them find the right treatment strategy. It is not always simple to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Especially in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for many who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for an assessment in private with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. You'll be able to save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time, but it will give you more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You must ensure that the person conducting your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely include a consultation with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your current challenges at work, at school or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They will also help you access other forms of support, including mentorship and support for studying skills. They will also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if are a university student.
While it is not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. In the end, there are some who try to reduce costs by using online assessments or private clinics that provide quick appointments but with no expertise in clinical practice. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there's no reason to think that people suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment if they are able to afford it.