ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other medical conditions, such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also ask for old school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and has profound effects on people's lives. In some regions waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The problem is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private healthcare from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults requesting an assessment has increased dramatically, and is currently exceeding its capacity. Those who choose to go the private route are usually much better served, as private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression that are frequently associated in ADHD.
However, many are concerned about the assessment of private patients and their potential to over-diagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the correct procedure. Some have even accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some have to seek help privately. The NHS must find a way to address this issue. In the meantime, if you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try the free test offered by an organization, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may be recommended to a psychiatrist additional therapy. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics have plenty of experience with a wide spectrum of adults, including women and men, who may suffer from ADHD. They can also look for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically significantly faster than NHS waiting times. Typically, you pay for the initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You may also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you could be referred to further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances in which patients received the diagnosis of ADHD but were later taken off. This is a serious problem, as it can be extremely distressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the adjustment. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worthwhile to verify whether you are covered.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers you to an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. adhd assessment private will be organized and you may bring along a friend or relative to help you through the process. It usually requires a few sessions for the assessment to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP said that he didn't suffer from it. The BBC said that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS, which is the only way that they can transfer their patient's care to the hospital following the patient has received a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medications for their patients, which may make it difficult for them to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to refer you. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by contacting the local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It aids people in understanding their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It can also help them find the right treatment plan. However, getting an assessment isn't always straightforward. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a major issue for those trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can self-refer to an expert psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This will help you save time and a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to make sure that the person who is conducting your test is either a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that may indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medication if needed. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. If you're a student, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to cut corners but the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. Some people attempt to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer fast appointments but with not having any clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis if they can afford it.