An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. Our Webpage may also request old school reports and other evidence to support your claim.
It is crucial that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult a psychiatrist. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that can have an enormous impact on the daily lives of people. In some areas waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is worsened by the growing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. It has seen a surge in the number of adults who seek an assessment, and is currently exceeding its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are typically more successful, since private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that are often associated with ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following the correct procedure. Some have accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this problem and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people are forced to seek assistance privately. The NHS should find a way to remedy this situation. 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 an individual psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with prescriptions.
Second opinion
If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics are typically adept with the various types of adults with ADHD which includes men and women. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but they are usually much quicker than NHS waiting times. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then schedule subsequent appointments if 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 assess it. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You may also be asked to fill out questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, like an MRI.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as the titration fee. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a number cases where patients received the diagnosis of ADHD but were later taken off. This is problematic because it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms incorrectly identified, and some of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurance plans offer these tests however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers to an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and perform a clinical evaluation. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosis. They will also check for co-morbidities or other mental health issues. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked about your family background as well as your current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you must bring a trusted person or relative along to provide collateral information. It typically takes a few visits for the evaluation to establish a diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an entire evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought it to the fore. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP claimed that he did not have it. The BBC claimed that the report was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medications if they follow strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign a shared care agreement with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the hospital following a private diagnosis. They believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD evaluation If they haven't done so already. You should be able to find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health services or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them and their family and friends better assist them. In addition, it can aid them in determining a suitable treatment strategy. It is not always simple to determine a diagnosis. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be frustrating for those trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. It will help you be able to save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months but it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person conducting your assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private evaluation could involve a clinical interview conducted by psychiatrists. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also use ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles in school, at work, and in relationships. They will also talk about any other symptoms you experience that could indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your consent. They will also recommend medications if they are needed. They can also assist you in obtaining other forms of support, including tutoring and study skills. If you're an undergraduate student, they can also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. As a result, there are people who try to cut costs through online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments with little or any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, but there's no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.
