ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other conditions, such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is crucial that the person performing your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to visit a psychiatrist. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that has an impact on the daily lives of people. In some regions waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is made worse by the growing awareness of this condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are opting to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. It has seen an explosion in the number of people seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults, and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression, which can often be present in ADHD.
Many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose a illness. The issue came to the attention of the public when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were giving diagnoses without due process. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about people with ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this issue and highlighting the suffering of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who need this help are being forced to seek it out privately and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the issue. If you suspect you may have ADHD Try a no-cost screening with a charity or pay an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess you. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is crucial to receive a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis can help you manage your symptoms and also prescribe medications. You may be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD as well as women and men. They can also test for co-morbidities like depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however, wait times for NHS services are much longer. Typically, you will pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate the condition. The initial appointment will usually include clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you might be referred to additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as titration fees. Certain private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. Titration process takes longer here and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS evaluation, before going to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a number instances where patients were given the diagnosis of ADHD, which was later withdrawn. This is a serious issue, as it can be extremely stressful for patients to be misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's worth checking to see whether you are covered.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also check for co-morbidities, or other mental health conditions. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During the test, 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 inquire about any medications that you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring your family member or friend to help you through the process. It usually takes a few visits to arrive at a diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after an Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP said that he did not have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS, which is the only way that they can transfer their patient's care to the NHS after an individual diagnosis. They believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. You can find out the estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service which is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It aids people in understanding their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It can also help them identify the right treatment plan. It's not always easy to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Particularly in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to a specialist psychiatrist for a private assessment. This can save you time and a trip to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take a few months. However, it will give you an accurate diagnosis than those provided by the NHS. You must ensure that the person performing the assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with psychiatrists. Questions will be asked about your mental health, childhood experiences and other factors. The doctor will also utilize rating scales and ask about your current struggles with work, school, and relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They will also help you get other types of support, such as mentorship and support for studying skills. They will also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at a university.
It is not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. This means that there are some who try to cut the line through online assessments and private clinics that offer short appointments with little or any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek a diagnosis when they can afford it.