ADHD is a complex disorder and can cause difficulties in relationships, work, and health. However, it also has positive characteristics that can assist achieve success if managed well.
With NHS waiting times for ADHD assessments at record levels, some individuals opt to get a private diagnosis. Many providers require the GP referral letter, however some do not.
What to expect
If you believe that you or a loved one may have ADHD it is essential to get properly diagnosed by an expert. This is a medical condition that requires a thorough examination by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. They will consider your symptoms, family history as well as your work and social life, and any mental health issues you may have. There are three different types of ADHD: predominately inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Each has its own set of symptoms. The assessment usually includes a detailed interview, online test, and questionnaires. The test will also look at your current and past issues and how they affect your daily activities.
If your doctor or clinical psychologist concludes that you meet the criteria for ADHD and they confirm this in writing. If they don't, they'll explain why and suggest a different diagnosis that can better explain your issues. You are entitled to appeal against their decision, however it is typically a lengthy process.
The assessment process will be quicker If you follow the "Right to Choose" process for NHS-funded Mental Healthcare in England. This means that you can choose the mental health service you want to use, rather than waiting for an appointment with your GP. This will let you get the help that you require more quickly.
Many people find that after receiving an assessment of ADHD it opens the door to support services which can assist them in dealing with the challenges associated with the condition. A few people will be able to find a coach who can assist them in improving their time management and organizational skills. A diagnosis can aid in connecting with others who have the same experience and understand what you're experiencing.
Some private assessment providers will require the GP recommendation prior to booking an appointment. Others do not. It is the policy of the provider that you choose. They should still adhere to guidelines for evidence-based practice that are published by NICE and it is worthwhile to consult them prior to scheduling an appointment.
Fees
ADHD assessment fees are a concern to people who want their condition to be diagnosed. This is especially true when the waiting times for NHS assessments in the UK have grown too long that many aren't receiving any diagnosis at any time (see this article for details).
In some instances, people may be able to access affordable healthcare services through private providers. Some hospitals offer sliding scale or free assessments as well as university testing centers that cater to students and those who are on a budget.
They are usually longer than a normal doctor's visit, but still concentrate on the various aspects of a person's life and how they affect their functioning. The interview process will also include questionnaires that are completed by the patient, as well as the family member or close friend. This will give you a better understanding of a patient's symptoms, and how they affect their relationships and everyday activities.
The questionnaires can be made standard to reduce the risk of making a mistake in diagnosing. The healthcare provider will then analyze the results of the questionnaires to determine if they meet criteria for ADHD. The healthcare professional will conduct a thorough interview in the event that the results are positive. The interview will cover the beginning and effects of symptoms on the patient's life.
A definitive diagnosis is established. This will be confirmed through a medical interview. If there is doubt as to whether an individual meets the criteria for ADHD The psychiatrist could recommend further tests, such as an EEG that analyzes brain activity and a cognitive test.
It is rare, but it does happen. If you choose to pay for an evaluation, be sure that the provider of your care adheres to the guidelines set by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence.
Timescales
Finding a doctor who can diagnose you privately for ADHD can help you get treatment faster. You can also benefit from the expertise of other mental health professionals such as therapists and psychologists. This can improve your life quality. This could also be beneficial to your children.
Your doctor will check your full medical history and may require a number of tests. These may include urine and blood tests. They will be used to determine if there are other conditions that may cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD which include thyroid disorders and lead poisoning, hearing and vision problems and a variety of medications and abuse of drugs.
You will be asked to complete certain forms prior to your appointment, which can take up to two hours. Before meeting with you, your psychiatrist will review the forms and make the best diagnosis. They will need to know the severity of your symptoms as well as whether they are impacting various aspects of your life. They will also need determine whether the symptoms you are experiencing are the result of co-existing disorders like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder.
ADHD symptoms can persist well into adulthood. In general, hyperactivity decreases, however symptoms like inattention, disorganisation, and impulsivity increase. This could have an impact on the capacity of a person to function at home as well as work. It could lead to the need for a medical referral to assess.
Your psychiatrist consultant can send an official report to your GP after a diagnosis has been made. He may also suggest possible treatment options. You should discuss the consequences of the diagnosis with your GP and any other people who might be affected by the diagnosis. Your consultant psychiatrist will be able to refer you to psychologists who can offer behavioral help and make suggestions to change your lifestyle and routines.
If you have an GP who is registered in England you can select the psychiatrist you would like to visit under the NHS Right to Choose scheme. This shouldn't affect the time it takes to get an NHS ADHD assessment.
Insurance
In the US those who have private health insurance may benefit from having ADHD treated and controlled through their insurance plans. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) made it easy for people to get mental health care, so people should be sure to examine their particular coverage to see the ways it can benefit them.
It's worth remembering that when you're enrolled in private insurance, you must still be referred to by your GP to get an assessment for ADHD. However, this does not mean that healthcare professionals can evade the rules and do what they want, as they must adhere to the guidelines set forth by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence.
Your doctor should be able to refer you to a private specialist such as an Psychiatrist, or a Specialist ADHD Nurse, depending on what is available within your locality. You can also call the specialist and schedule an appointment on your own. The specialist will determine if you have ADHD and what steps are needed to effectively manage it including prescribing medication.
Talkspace, for example, allows you to talk with an online therapist. Licensed and vetted therapists are available to talk to you about your concerns, including coping mechanisms for ADHD and offer you advice on managing your symptoms. They can help you find new ways to deal with your symptoms and make sure that they don't interfere too much with your life.
In certain cases therapy providers may be able to send you an acknowledgement letter that states that your ADHD assessment is covered by your health insurance. Check your policy to see what's covered. A lot of insurance companies have a cap on the amount they'll pay each year or the number of visits they'll cover.
Read Alot more might cover the costs of your initial assessment as well as sessions of therapy to help you manage your symptoms. You can learn about behavioural strategies and improve your sleep patterns and manage your emotions through therapy.
