ADHD is a condition that is often not recognized and under-treated, at great cost to individuals and society. This is partly due to the attitudes of gatekeepers that control the referral pathways.
It is possible to get a private diagnosis through the NHS Right To Choose scheme that allows you to be referred to a qualified service that has contracts with the NHS. This can make the process much faster.
Waiting times
The NHS is swamped with demand for ADHD assessments and treatment, leading to long waits. A charity warned that patients have to wait seven years for their first assessment. ADHD Action is a charity has warned that people who aren't diagnosed with ADHD are in a risky situation. The charity ADHD Action stated that this is despite the fact that the awareness of ADHD has increased due to the presence of celebrities such as Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
One of the main reasons for the long wait times is that there aren't enough NHS ADHD specialists to meet the demand. The NHS does not regularly collect data, which makes it difficult to figure out how many people are currently waiting to receive an assessment for ADHD. Patients who have access to private health care can take a different route, by asking their GP for a referral outside of the area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute meeting with a psychiatrist who will inquire about your medical history and symptoms. The psychiatrist will then recommend a treatment or medication based on the findings. Private assessments are a good option for those who need quick and precise diagnosis. However, you should be aware that some providers require a GP referral letter, while others do not. This could impact your options if you want to enter into an agreement for shared-care with your GP. In this scenario you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription charges for your medications.
It can be difficult to be given an ADHD diagnosis, particularly when your symptoms cause you to feel stressed. It can be a relief. A clear diagnosis can improve your life by helping you make better choices. If you're thinking about a private diagnosis, here are some tips to help you find the right provider.
Examine the credentials and experience of a psychiatrist prior choosing one. The doctor should not only possess a medical degree, but also have completed specialist training in the field of mental health. Find out if the doctor has an authorization to prescribe medication. Make sure the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. Additionally, the psychiatrist should be able to recognize and treat any co-morbidities related to ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are doctors who have medical qualifications who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. They can assist with emotional and physical issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in several areas, including psychotherapy, social services and the science of pharmacology. Certain psychiatrists have been trained in psychotherapy that is transcultural and have vast knowledge of both adult and child psychotherapy.
You should first speak with your GP to discuss your concerns. They should be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment. You should be prepared to talk about your symptoms and family history, since these can impact on the diagnosis. GPs may ask you to fill in an ADHD screener questionnaire before referring you for an assessment. This can take up to an hour and is typically done in person, but you can also complete the questionnaire over the telephone or by an via video calls online.
Only a Psychiatrist, or a specialist nurse, can conduct an assessment for ADHD. Only these health professionals can prescribe medications for this condition. If you do not want to take medication, you can still see a psychologist. The assessment usually lasts for 90 minutes, but you can anticipate spending longer than that because your Psychiatrist will be exploring your symptoms and history.
A recent report by the BBC's Panorama program highlighted the lengthy waiting times for ADHD assessments on the NHS. The program also questioned quality of some private ADHD assessment services. The report said that some psychiatrists diagnose adults with ADHD, and prescribe them medication without properly assessing the signs. In some instances, these patients are not taking the medication according to the instructions. This can cause serious side effects, like insomnia and high blood pressure.
Presently, NHS patients can choose the GP they wish to visit for an ADHD assessment. There is the list of GPs who offer this service here. The list is not complete and does not include every provider who has an agreement with NHS England. You can also get private treatment through Right to Choose, although the consultation fees are not paid for by the NHS.
CBT therapy
There are a myriad of treatment options available for adults suffering from ADHD. The most popular is stimulant medication, but there are also many non-medication treatments that may be beneficial. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms by transforming negative thoughts or behaviours. This type of therapy usually involves a combination of group and individual sessions, and requires a strong working relationship with your therapy provider. You should also consider whether you have mental health issues such as anxiety or depression that could affect your ability to manage symptoms.
It is essential to talk to your GP regarding your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and suggest an ADHD assessment. You might be asked to complete a questionnaire, such as the DIVA test. Then, you will meet with a psychiatrist to discuss your concerns and find out the treatment options available.
If you're unable to wait to receive a referral from the NHS, a private ADHD assessment may be able to assist. A private assessment will involve an hour-long interview with a psychiatrist specifically trained to diagnose adult ADHD. The cost will range between PS500 and PS800. Some providers require an appointment with a GP however, others don't.
A diagnosis of ADHD can improve your life by assisting to cope with your symptoms and lower stress levels. private adhd assessment adults can also reduce the likelihood that you will take impulsive actions which can cause problems in your career and personal relationships. Joining a support group is also beneficial to many adults suffering from ADHD. These groups can provide an empowering, supportive environment for those suffering from ADHD. You can find them on the internet or in person.
It is important to know that only a certified specialist nurse or psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health professionals are able to conduct an ADHD assessment however they are not able to provide a formally recognised diagnosis of the disorder. A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment option for ADHD that could include medication, lifestyle changes or psychological intervention.
Medication
With the growing awareness of ADHD more people are seeking treatment for their symptoms. The NHS is unable to meet the demands. This is especially the case for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. Private clinics are able to provide adults with ADHD with fast and efficient assessments. These clinics can provide an extensive ADHD assessment, which includes the written diagnosis. If necessary, they will prescribe medication.
BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a number of private health clinics in the UK that were providing incorrect ADHD diagnoses. These clinics are profiting from the growing demand for ADHD diagnoses and treatments. However, this doesn't mean that those with ADHD should not seek medical attention. Remember that this condition can be very serious and can affect many aspects of your life. In fact, untreated ADHD can lead to an 12.7 year reduction in life expectancy(2).
It is often difficult to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD especially when you have a GP who is hesitant or has preconceived beliefs about the disorder. Despite the growing awareness of the disorder, these biases persist and can make it difficult for people to receive a proper diagnosis. It is also important to recognize that just because you are paying for healthcare does not mean that you can't bend the rules. Your healthcare professional should follow NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your GP is unwilling to recommend you for an ADHD assessment or treatment, then you may consult an individual psychiatrist. He will assess you and prescribe medication if necessary. The psychiatrist will also conduct an interview to determine if your ADHD symptoms have a negative impact on your life. The psychiatrist will ask questions about your history and family mental health issues to determine the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A complete ADHD report will be included in the private assessment and can be delivered directly to your GP. It can be used to support claims for reasonable accommodations at work or Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).
