With NHS service waiting times for adult ADHD assessments at an all-time high, a lot of people are looking at private alternatives. But before you go this route, it's important to be aware of what to expect.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation suggested that certain private ADHD assessment clinics might be performing assessments in a hurry and prescribing powerful drugs without proper consideration of patients their mental health history.
Waiting several times
It takes some time to receive an ADHD diagnosis. In certain regions of the country people can be waiting for up to four years before being examined by the NHS. Those who are suffering from the condition and need help can go to private clinics, but they must be able to afford their treatment.
If you need an ADHD diagnosis quickly an experienced private psychiatrist can help. The private doctors are usually adept at treating adults with ADHD and can provide a reliable diagnosis in a short time. They will also be able to screen for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that may be connected with ADHD. They may also be able prescribe medication.
Highly recommended Website showed that some privately run clinics in the UK are systematically diagnosing ADHD for adults and prescribing them medication. A reporter undercover posed as a patient at six private clinics in London. The reporter was instructed to answer questions honestly but he didn't inform the doctors that he was there for an ADHD assessment. He claimed that he had trouble at home and at work. The reporter stated that he was having trouble sleeping, and he also lost weight.
Some of the private clinics he went to were not accredited by the NHS, which is an obligation under the Mental Health Act. This means that they must adhere to certain standards, including the right to be aware of the risks and benefits with any treatment. They also have to provide an exact description of the expenses of the treatment as well as how they will fund it.
One of the reasons it can take the time to complete an ADHD assessment is that many GPs do not feel at ease in referring patients. They may be concerned about the stigma associated with the disorder or worry that they'll be compelled to prescribe medication. It's crucial to find a GP that will refer patients and is well-versed in the disorder.
Medication
A private psychiatrist's ADHD assessment can take anywhere from to 30 minutes. The cost of the evaluation will depend on the location you live in. It is worth comparing costs to determine what works best for your budget. A comprehensive adult ADHD diagnosis is crucial if you want to get treatment for your symptoms. Find a clinic close to your home and a psychiatrist with extensive experience. This will ensure an easier experience and better outcomes.
A private psychiatrist can prescribe the best medication for ADHD. Typically, they'll prescribe methylphenidate (Ritalin) or atomoxetine. These medications are licensed in the UK and have undergone rigorous tests. Moreover they are controlled by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority. If you're not comfortable with the idea of taking an medication, your physician might suggest alternatives for treatment, like cognitive behavior therapy.
The psychiatrist will send an exact copy of the report to you and your GP after you've been diagnosed with ADHD. This will help you prove your condition for insurance purposes or for other reasons. A letter from a psychologist can help you get the Disabled Student Allowance.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis on the NHS can be a long process. Patients typically have to wait for months to receive an appointment with a doctor. This can lead to anxiety and frustration, particularly if the condition affects your work and social life. Private ADHD assessments can help you get the treatment you require sooner.
If you choose to take an individual ADHD assessment, the doctor must sign a shared care agreement with your GP. This will permit you to pay the NHS prescription fee and obtain the medication you need. It is recommended to speak with your doctor before deciding to go for an assessment in private. Certain GPs will not do this. If they are unable to take this step then you are able to return to the NHS.
CBT therapy
Although many people suffering from ADHD are able to improve their condition with CBT therapy however, medication is usually the most preferred alternative. Prescription medications can carry dangers. Depression and anxiety are two instances of adverse effects. Some patients may even develop dependency on these medications. It is important to consult a doctor prior to starting any treatment. A private psychiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.
BBC Panorama's investigation has once again brought the lack of quality of ADHD services in the UK to the forefront. The BBC Panorama programme revealed that the NHS does not meet the needs of those with ADHD who have long wait times for treatment and assessments. The fact that more people are suffering from this condition than ever before, and that it can have devastating effects on their lives, is not enough to address the issue.
Many people believe that private healthcare is superior than the NHS. However, this is not always true. Although private healthcare providers are paid an enormous amount of money, this does not mean that they are able to break the rules. They must nevertheless adhere to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence Guidelines and adhere to established practices. In addition, they should also have the required skills, knowledge, experience and education to detect and treat ADHD.
In England, the NHS offers an adult ADHD assessment service at a variety of locations including Maudsley Hospital in London. However, this service is limited and can be extremely frustrating for patients. The waiting time and quality of the assessments can be a bit variable.
Psychiatrists are trained to evaluate patients for a range of mental health problems that include ADHD. Some doctors might not comprehend the disorder fully and overlook the most crucial symptoms. This can lead to mistaken diagnosis, which is a major issue for those with ADHD. This is the reason it's essential to find a specialist psychiatrist in treating ADHD.
Some private therapists are willing to assist with ADHD diagnosis for a small fee. This is an excellent way to avoid lengthy waiting times for NHS mental health services. Be aware, however, that this kind of treatment is not covered by insurance.
Insurance
If you have private medical insurance, you might want to check your terms and conditions to determine whether or not an ADHD assessment will be covered. Axa PPP, Aviva and Vitality all state in their terms and conditions that they do not cover ADHD assessments. Bupa offers cover.
It is crucial to keep in mind that waiting times for private clinics can be lengthy, as can the time it takes to receive a correct diagnosis through the NHS. Therefore, many parents opt to go to private clinics in order to get rid of the red tape and accelerate their waiting times.
As Panorama has revealed, a few private clinics are also giving out unreliable diagnoses. But it's equally important to emphasize that this isn't something which needs to be tolerated. It's not a smart or safe procedure, and it ought to be a source of scandal for the UK.
It's also important to remember that if you do have a private diagnosis, it's important to ensure that your doctor is willing to sign a shared-care agreement with the NHS for medication. You can still get prescriptions for medication, but you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription fee instead of the full price. Many GPs will be happy to do this however not all will and it is best to ask first.
