ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough procedure. private adhd assessment will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They can also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that can have a significant impact on the daily lives of people. The situation is even worse in certain areas, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the growing awareness of this condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and many patients are choosing to seek treatment through private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has grown exponentially, and is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities like depression and anxiousness that can be a result of ADHD.
Many people are worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the disease. The issue was brought to the attention of the public when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper process. Some have claimed that the program is promoting stigma and stereotyping against people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who require assistance are forced to seek it privately, and the NHS should come up with ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you might be suffering from ADHD You can try an assessment for free with a charity, or request an assessment from private psychiatrists. They're typically less expensive than the NHS, but will not provide the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be advised to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics offering diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have lots of experience with a wide range adults, including women and men who might suffer from ADHD. They also can screen for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however the waiting times for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment, and then subsequent appointments as required. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate the condition. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You could also be required to complete questionnaires and referred for additional tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time as well as the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this can be less expensive. However, the process of titration is longer and requires a number of appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation revealed a number of cases where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later removed. This is a problem since it can be extremely distressing for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed, and a few of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance plans will cover these tests but it's worth checking with your insurer to determine if your policy will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers to a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will assess whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also search for co-morbidities or other mental health conditions. These are often anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history as well as current issues at home and work. They will also ask about any medications that you're taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring along a friend or relative to assist you understand the information. The assessment will usually take a few sessions to reach the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the inadequate provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought it to the fore. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP said he didn't have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only permitted to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medications in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the service after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask for it. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health clinic or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. Not only does it help people understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their family and friends better support them. Additionally, it can aid them in determining a suitable treatment strategy. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always easy. Especially in the UK where patients are facing long waiting times for an assessment from the NHS. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you're unable to wait, it's possible to request an assessment in private with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This will save you time and also a visit to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take months however, it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person conducting your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment could include an interview with a psychiatrist. Questions will be asked regarding your mental health, childhood experiences and other aspects. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also address other symptoms that could be indicative of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send 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 you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university.
It's not a good idea to cut corners, but the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and little or no medical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, however there's no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.