ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually a fairly comprehensive process. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and also rule out other illnesses like thyroid issues or depression. They may also ask for old school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is true for psychiatrists and GPs alike.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder that can have an enormous impact on people's daily lives. The situation is even worse in some areas, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of this condition as well as the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose 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. It has seen an explosion in the number of people seeking an assessment, which exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety, which can often be associated in ADHD.
However, many people are still worried about the assessment of private patients and their potential to over-diagnose the illness. The issue came to the public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the program of inciting stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the dire situation of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some of those who need this help are being forced to seek it privately, and the NHS should come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you think you might be suffering from ADHD You can try an assessment for free with an organization, or pay for an assessment from a private psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS however they will not give the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may be recommended to a psychiatrist additional therapy. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and adjustment. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults with ADHD, including women and men. They are also able to look for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, waiting time for NHS services are more lengthy. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then make follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will usually consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You will also be required to answer questionnaires, and you may be referred to further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis, and may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances where patients were given an assessment of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and some of them have been prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it is worth checking to see whether you are covered.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers to an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that might be present. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The doctor will discuss with you the treatment options and medications if needed.
During the test you will be asked questions about your family background as well as current problems at home and work. They will also ask about any medications you are taking. The interview will be organized and you may bring along a friend or relative to help you understand the information. The assessment will usually require several sessions to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought the issue to light. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his GP insisted that he was not suffering from the condition. The BBC said that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS as it is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the service after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You can find out the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health clinic, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. It aids people in understanding their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It also assists them to determine the best treatment strategy. However, obtaining a diagnosis is not always easy. Particularly in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for many people who want to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. This can save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. This is a lengthy process that could take months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than those provided by the NHS. It is crucial to ensure that the person conducting your assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist, as these are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment could include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. There will be questions about your mental health, your childhood history and other factors. The doctor will also employ ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles in school, at work, and in relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send a comprehensive ADHD report to your GP with your consent. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of help, like studying skills and mentoring. If you are a student, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics with quick appointments and not having any expert clinical knowledge. These methods should be avoided. However, adhd assessment uk private with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis if they can afford it.