ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other conditions like depression or thyroid problems. They may also request older school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is important that the person performing your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This applies to GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to visit a psychiatrist. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder that has an enormous impact on people's daily lives. The situation is more difficult in some regions, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The number of adults seeking an assessment has increased dramatically, and is currently exceeding the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness that are often associated with ADHD.
private adhd assessment cost are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to misdiagnose the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following due process. Some have accused the program of spreading stigma and stereotyping about those with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, however, for exposing the issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who require assistance are forced to seek it privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the issue. If you suspect you might have ADHD Consider a no-cost screening through a charity or pay a private psychiatrist to evaluate you. They're typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not provide the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis if you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are many private clinics offering diagnosis and titration services. These clinics are usually very adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD, including men and women. They also can screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however the wait times for NHS services are more lengthy. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to evaluate the condition. The initial appointment will normally involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you could be referred for additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis, and may be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a 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 a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is problematic because it can be extremely stressful for people to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and a few of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments however it is worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to see if your policy will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform a clinical assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The clinician will discuss with you the options for treatment that are available, including medication if required.
During the test during the assessment, you will be asked about your family background and the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you're taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring your family member or friend to assist you understand the information. The examination will typically require a few sessions to reach an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics will offer a comprehensive evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought it to the fore. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he didn't suffer from it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while doctors can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the service following a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health service or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site lets you choose an online ADHD Assessment service that will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It not only helps individuals better understand themselves, but it also helps them and their family and friends better help them. In addition, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. It is not always simple to get a diagnosis. Especially in the UK where patients are facing long waiting times for an assessment by the NHS. This can cause anxiety for many people who want to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an appointment with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. It will help you reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that could take months. However, it will give you a more accurate diagnoses that those provided by the NHS. It is important to make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions regarding your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at school, at work or in relationships. They will also address any other signs you may have which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They will also recommend medication if appropriate. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of assistance, such as study skills and mentoring. They will also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a university student.
While it is not ideal to take short cuts, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and little or no medical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there's no reason why people suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.