In the UK, you have a legal right to choose the person who provides your specialist NHS mental health exams. But not all healthcare professionals are certified to diagnose ADHD.
Panorama has received complaints from whistleblowers and patients who claim that private clinics diagnose ADHD and prescribe drugs without proper screening. We conducted an undercover investigation to find out more.
What is an assessment?
An assessment is a consultation with a psychiatrist to discuss the ways in which ADHD affects your life and to see whether medication could aid. You will be asked to provide details about your symptoms and the issues they cause. You will be asked about your work and family life. Some patients find it helpful to write down symptoms prior to their appointment. This is to help them remember their symptoms. A psychiatrist is typically spending 45 to 90 minutes with you during an assessment.
There are two ways to receive an adult ADHD assessment: the NHS or private. GPs must take ADHD concerns seriously and recommend you to an assessment. The system is not without its problems. The BBC's Panorama program raised concerns regarding the long-term use of powerful medications being given out by doctors, and the lack of proper care and consideration for the medical history of patients.
If you're concerned about the attitude of your GP toward ADHD Consider finding a different GP. On the website of Psychiatry-UK you can find an aid that contains templates and suggestions to make your request.
Private psychiatric treatment is more efficient and professional, particularly in London. The price ranges from PS600 to up to PS1,200. Private psychiatrists have experience of screening adults from a variety of backgrounds and can offer an individual approach, particularly in cases where you might be highly intelligent or successful in your career. They can also screen for and assist with any co-morbidities that are often associated with ADHD such as depression and anxiety.
The Psychiatrist evaluates your symptoms based on the DSM V criteria and determines if you meet the criteria of an ADHD diagnosis. You will need to demonstrate at least 6 characteristics (symptoms) that are present in your life today and how they have had an impact on your previous experiences.
The Psychiatrist will inform you of your options and the next steps. You may choose to start treatment that involves stimulants like methylphenidate. Stimulants are covered under the Misuse of Drugs Act and are therefore controlled. They must be prescribed by an experienced psychiatrist or a doctor registered with the General Medical Council.
What is a diagnosis?
A diagnosis is the medical term used to describe the cause of a condition, injury or condition. A diagnosis is provided by a physician and is often accompanied by a treatment plan. The diagnosis is a key component of the curriculum of medical students and is an integral part in the education of doctors in all areas of medicine. Medical journals often use the term "diagnosis" and it is often used in periodical articles about health care.
There are a variety of methods to receive an ADHD diagnosis in the UK. One option is to visit your GP and ask for referral to an adult ADHD specialist or clinic. Another option is to seek a private psychiatrist to perform a diagnosis. Private psychiatrists generally have extensive experience diagnosing adults with ADHD and can provide an accelerated, more professional and understanding process. They also have a better understanding of the other conditions that may confuse symptoms with ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.
Once you have received a diagnosis and have a treatment plan, you can discuss options with your psychiatrist. This can include medication or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), along with other non-medicated treatments like mindfulness or relaxation techniques. You can choose which treatment option is most suitable for your requirements.
A diagnosis of ADHD can also allow you to get reasonable adjustments and Disability Living Allowance. In private adhd assessment for adults of DSA this is crucial because it helps with day-to-day activities that those with disabilities or illnesses need to do.
If you're considering stimulants such as methylphenidate to treat ADHD, know that these are class B drugs and could cause addiction. If you're concerned, your psychiatrist can refer to an GP who can prescribe a treatment with no stimulants.
Finding an ADHD diagnosis can be a difficult and frustrating process. There are a variety of factors to consider and the NHS system is often stretched and under resourced which means it can be very easy for GPs and other health professionals to ignore or downplay a potential diagnosis. You may bring a list of symptoms to the examination and be objective when you describe your symptoms.
How do I get a diagnosis?
Your child or you might be suffering from ADHD. The first step to controlling symptoms that can affect your life is to get an diagnosis. It's not an easy process, but it's crucial to keep in mind that ADHD isn't a sign laziness or a lack of intelligence. It is a neurobiological disorder. It is important to understand that the correct treatment can help you manage your ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.
A specialist will determine your diagnosis by combining a thorough history as well as a review of your current symptoms, and then analyzing the results of scales and questionnaires designed to identify ADHD in adults. They will then apply the criteria established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to make an accurate diagnosis.
The evaluator will also interview you and your family members and may conduct medical tests or cognitive tests in order to rule out any underlying causes of your symptoms. This can include things like seizures and thyroid disorders that can have similar symptoms as ADHD.
During the evaluation it is essential to be open about your symptoms and how they impact your life at home, school or at work. This is so that the evaluator will be able to determine if you have an ADHD diagnosis or a co-existing condition which is causing your symptoms.
Once the evaluation is completed, your clinician will discuss your options regarding medication if you are considering them. GPs are not allowed to prescribe ADHD medication. However, they can provide other mental health treatments like CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). If you opt to get a prescription, your clinician will create a form for your GP known as a Shared Care Agreement which outlines the type of treatment you will be receiving on the NHS and who will be receiving it.
Asking your friends and family members for recommendations of professionals with expertise in ADHD assessments of adults is a good idea before you go for an assessment in private. You can also read online reviews regarding the services in your area and learn more about their techniques. You can also make use of BetterHelp's simple service to get matched within 48 hours to a therapist who is experienced.
Can I receive an appointment for a diagnosis through Right to Choose?
If you're a member of the Armed Forces, you have a right to choose which mental health practitioner you're referred to for an ADHD assessment. You'll need to make sure that your GP will accept either full care or something called a 'shared care agreement' once the chosen provider has discharged you and prescribes treatment (usually CBT or medication). Calling the providers directly will enable you to find out if they have contracts with NHS. You can also check the waiting times of providers on this website.
If your GP recommends you to an ADHD specialist through the Right to Choose pathway, they will ask you questions about your symptoms and the time when they began. This will help your provider better understand your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. Answer these questions in a clear and honest manner.
You can learn more about how to exercise your Right to Choose on the NHS website here. It's important to note that the NHS currently does not offer an titration service for medicines through the Right to Choose pathway. Even if you're diagnosed using this pathway, you may still not be able access the medication you need.
There are a variety of other routes to an ADHD diagnosis which include private clinics. BBC's Panorama recently exposed private clinics that provide quick and cheap diagnosis of ADHD. These methods can be dangerous if you're seeking to claim benefits like Disabled Students Allowance or reasonable adjustments at work, as an example.
It's important to remember that the stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are Class B drugs which means they are subject to restrictions under the Misuse of Drugs Act. If you're found guilty of committing an offence of criminal intent while taking these medicines, you could face an extensive fine or even jail time.
If you are diagnosed with ADHD or ADD, whether through the NHS or privately you may be eligible for disability benefits such as Income Support, Attendance Allowance, or both, based on the degree of the disorder. You will also need to submit a letter from the service provider to prove this, as well as an official copy of your documents.
