If your GP is unable to refer you for an ADHD assessment on the NHS however, you are able to look for a private practitioner through Right to Choose. Psychiatry UK and ADHD 360 offer detailed instructions on how to go about this.
Private assessments are more comprehensive and often lead to faster diagnosis than the NHS. Many GPs won't sign shared care agreements once the patient has been diagnosed and is prescribed medication.
Costs
If you think your child might have ADHD, or if you are already struggling with it, a medical diagnosis will be necessary to ensure the most effective treatment. The NHS has long waiting periods and private clinics can be costly. However, there are alternatives that will allow you to get the treatment you require without breaking your bank account.
Private ADHD assessment services provide a more streamlined approach to getting a diagnosis and a treatment plan. They also provide a more personal, confidential setting. They also provide several ADHD tests to help determine the severity of the symptoms. However the cost of a private assessment will vary greatly based on the type of test and the facility that is used.
Adults can pay anywhere between PS500 and PS1,200 for an individual ADHD assessment. This includes a comprehensive assessment and a complete diagnosis report. In addition, the cost of medication titration as well as ongoing appointments are possible. These appointments are typically scheduled every 3-4 weeks, until you reach a stable dose.
Some private ADHD clinics offer installment plans and payment plans to make the process more affordable. A GP referral isn't necessarily required for private assessments. However, it is recommended to discuss this with your GP prior to scheduling an appointment.
While the private route is more expensive however, it is quicker than waiting for an NHS diagnosis. Private psychiatrists are also more acquainted with adult ADHD and have frequently worked with high-performing adults. They can also screen for and manage co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private clinics offer a range of support services, including video on the internet and phone follow-up. This is a great option for patients who aren't able to go to the clinic regularly for appointments. In titration process to this, a psychiatrist will be on hand between appointments to answer questions and provide extra support. All conversations and appointments are kept strictly private, with the exception of instances where you or your family members might be at risk. The psychiatrist will only share your information with your GP with your permission.
Waiting times
The National Health Service offers assessments for ADHD but waiting times can be long. Those who can't wait to be evaluated and diagnosed by a psychiatrist who practices in private practice can opt to take the test. Psychiatrists are experts in the field and can help patients understand their symptoms and how to manage them. They may also recommend medication and offer a treatment plan that includes other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
However, it is important to be aware that private assessment and titration isn't for all. The cost is expensive and the NHS doesn't cover it. Before you begin it is crucial to consult your GP. If you are concerned about costs and want to know more, you can always find an alternative provider and request an agreement on shared care. This will give you the opportunity to get an evaluation and medication at a discounted price.
The most common method to obtain a private diagnosis for ADHD is through an appointment with your GP. You can get this done via the NHS e-Referral Service. On the NHS website, you can find a list with qualified providers in England. Psychiatry UK, for example, is an online psychiatry company which has agreements with a number of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in England to conduct ADHD assessments. The company has a short waiting time and will often conduct the assessment via video calls.
If you have a doctor who refuses to refer you to an ADHD assessment, you should consider changing doctors. Psychiatry-uk and ADHD 360 both offer guidance on this, including the forms your GP could use. If you decide to change doctors, make sure that the new doctor accepts your Shared Care Agreement.
In most cases, your doctor will refer you for an assessment in private, and then transfer you to an NHS titration service if you're diagnosed with ADHD. This is the most effective option for the majority of people. But, if your GP isn't in agreement with this, you can still take a private titration however, you'll need to pay for the drugs yourself.
In some cases private titrations may prescribe "red amber", specialist medications that aren't available on the NHS. The procedure can be a bit confusing and expensive, especially in the case of a medical history that is complicated.
Medication options
You'll need to speak with a psychiatrist if you suffer from ADHD and want to try medications. They are the only mental health professionals that can provide a diagnosis and prescribe medication. They can also aid you in obtaining appropriate adjustments and DSA. However waiting times can be long. To accelerate the process, you can ask your GP for an NHS referral under Right to Choose. Psychiatry UK has detailed guidance on this topic, as well as printable forms that your GP can use.
After you have made your appointment you will be asked to complete medical questionnaires and attend a clinical interview. This will include a discussion about your symptoms and how they impact your life. You should expect to discuss treatment options, including medication. It is also recommended to prepare for a titration session in which the dosage of medication will be gradually increased until you find the appropriate dosage to treat your symptoms.
While some people are able to do well on medications, others find that they have side effects or don't notice any improvement in their symptoms. It is possible to alter your dosage or try a new medication if this happens. Participating in regular titration meetings and keeping an eye on your progress is crucial to ensure that you have the best results of your medication. This will be done by the psychiatrist or nurse.
The titration procedure is designed to find the perfect balance between your symptoms and the side effects of medication. This can take up to 8 weeks. This will allow you to improve your symptoms while minimising negative side effects. The psychiatrist will be able to monitor your progress and make recommendations for further intervention. They may also refer you to your GP or another specialist for CBT or psychosocial support.
If you decide to start taking medication for the first time, the titration session will be followed by an annual review. You'll need to attend a titration session every 3-4 weeks until you're stabilized on the medication. These appointments are paid privately, and cost between PS60 to PS110 per month.
Confidentiality
Private ADHD assessments can be conducted by UK registered psychiatrists. These are doctors with medical qualifications who specialize in psychiatry, or health professionals who have additional training and expertise in the diagnosis of ADHD. In addition private assessments are able to be completed more quickly than NHS assessments. Private ADHD assessments are typically more affordable. It is worthwhile to check if your chosen provider requires a GP referral before booking an appointment.
In light of the recent BBC Panorama expose, it is crucial to know what to look out for when booking an appointment for a private ADHD assessment. The expose revealed that private clinics carried only a few health assessments and were prescribing powerful drugs for ADHD without taking into account the potential adverse consequences.
