An ADHD evaluation is typically a fairly thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school reports or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is essential that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have a significant impact on people's daily lives. In some areas, waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private healthcare 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 service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are typically more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and will be more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety which are often present with ADHD.
Many people are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose a illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the correct procedure. Some have claimed that the program is promoting stigma and stereotyping against people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who require this help are being required to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD You can try the free test offered by a charity, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are typically less expensive than the NHS however they don't include a prescription.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. A correct diagnosis can help you manage your symptoms and also prescribe medication. You may be referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Private clinics often offer diagnosis and titration. private adult adhd assessment near me have a lot of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men who may suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however the wait times for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you will pay for a first assessment and then have follow-up appointments as needed. If you are insured and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You could also be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, for example, an MRI.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this can be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited three years for an NHS assessment before he went to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of instances where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later removed. This is a serious problem, as it can be very distressing for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's worthwhile to verify if you have coverage.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and carry out an assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at home and work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you must bring an adult friend or relative with you to provide any additional information. The examination will typically require a few sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an entire evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his doctor insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the report was a case of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medications when they adhere to strict guidelines.
Many GPs refuse to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to do so. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service that is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. Not only does it help people understand themselves better as well as help them and their family and friends better support them. It also assists them to identify the right treatment plan. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Particularly in the UK where people have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for many people who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for a private assessment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This will help you save time and also a visit to your GP. It is a long process that could take months. However, it will give you a more accurate diagnoses than the ones provided by the NHS. You must ensure that the person conducting your test is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a consultation with a psychiatrist, including questions regarding your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your current struggles at work, at school or in relationships. The doctor will also address other symptoms that could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They will also recommend medication if needed. They can also assist you to get other types of support, including mentoring and study skills support. If you're students, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not the best idea to cut corners however, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. In the end, there are some who try to cut costs through online assessments and private clinics that offer short appointments with little or any clinical expertise. These shortcuts are to be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.
