A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually a fairly comprehensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and rule out other conditions like depression or thyroid. They may also request old school reports as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This applies to both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to visit psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognized as a serious mental health disorder and that it has major impact on the lives of people. The situation is worse in some areas, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The problem is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and many patients are opting to seek treatment from private healthcare providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. It has seen a surge in the number of people seeking an assessment, which is currently outpacing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults and are better able to comprehend the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that can be a result of ADHD.
However, many are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to over-diagnose the illness. The issue was brought to the public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without due process. Some have even accused the program of inciting stigma and stereotypes against those who suffer from ADHD.
see it here should be commended, however, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who require this assistance are being required to seek it privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you might be suffering from ADHD You can try an assessment for free with a charity or take advantage of an assessment by a private psychiatrist. These are usually cheaper than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You may also be recommended to a psychiatrist additional treatment. There are a variety of private clinics offering diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have plenty of experience with a wide spectrum of adults, including men and women, who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however the waiting times for NHS services are significantly longer. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then make subsequent appointments if required. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will usually consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You might be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, like an MRI.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and are less expensive. However, the process of titration is longer and requires a number of appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a number instances in which patients received the diagnosis of ADHD and then withdrawn. This is problematic because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms wrongly identified, and some patients have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurers will cover these tests, but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if your policy covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and carry out 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 look for co-morbidities, or any other mental health issues. Most often, these are depression and anxiety. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background as well as the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring along a friend or relative to help you with the information. It typically takes a few sessions for the assessment to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, while others only look for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after an Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his doctor said that he did not have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients to further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the hospital after a private diagnosis. They feel they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they require.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment If they haven't done so already. You should be able to find out the estimated waiting time by contacting your local mental health clinic, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It aids people in understanding themselves as well as their family and friends. It also assists them to find the right treatment strategy. However, obtaining a diagnosis is not always straightforward. In the UK people must wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many who are trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This will help you save time and also a visit to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take a long time but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is crucial to ensure that the person running your test is a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment is likely to include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in work, school, and relationships. They will also discuss any other signs you may have that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They will also assist with other forms of support, including studying skills and mentoring. If you are an undergraduate student, they can also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not ideal to cut corners however the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and little or no clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, those suffering from ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.
