ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other illnesses such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also request older school reports or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognized as an extremely serious mental health condition and has profound impacts on people's lives. In some regions, waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and a rise in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in various parts of the country. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, and is currently outpacing its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are usually much better off, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression that are frequently associated with ADHD.
However, many are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to over-diagnose the illness. The issue came to the public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the program of propagating stigma and stereotypes about people with ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require this help are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS should come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity, or pay for an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not issue a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek out a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can aid in managing your symptoms and also prescribe medication. You could also be referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics have a lot of experience working with a broad range of adults, both men and women, who may suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are costly, but the wait times for NHS services are much longer. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if necessary. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are able to assess it. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You could be required to complete questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and this can be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment before he went to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number instances where patients were given the diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a serious problem, as it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it is important to check whether you're covered.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they match the diagnostic criteria. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The doctor will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if appropriate.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family history and the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview. You should bring an adult friend or relative with you to provide additional information. It typically takes a few visits for the evaluation to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, while others only test for specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - while his GP claimed that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medication when they adhere to strict guidelines.
Many GPs are unwilling to sign a contract for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way they can transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnoses. They believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for their patients to get the care they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. You can determine your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health services or by using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you choose an online ADHD Assessment service that will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It can help people understand their own behavior and that of their family and friends. In addition, it could private adhd assessment help them find a good treatment strategy. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always easy. In the UK patients have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for those looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you cannot wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This will save you time and also a visit to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time however, it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You must ensure that the person conducting the assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a consultation with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that may indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They will also assist with other forms of support, including study skills and mentoring. They will also help with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university.
It's not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people attempt to save money by using online assessments or private clinics with short appointments and little or no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, those suffering from ADHD should still seek a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.