ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and rule out other conditions like depression or thyroid. They may also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is vital that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This applies to both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health issue and has profound impacts on people's lives. In some regions waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of this condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment through private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS across the country. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of adults seeking an assessment, which exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults and are better able to comprehend the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
However, many are still worried about the assessment of private patients and their potential to over-diagnose the disease. The issue came to the attention of the public when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were giving diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have accused the program of inciting stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, for exposing the issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some are forced to seek help privately. The NHS must find a way to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you think you might have ADHD You can try a free screening with a charity or pay for an assessment from a private psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis when you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can help you manage your symptoms and also prescribe medications. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are many private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have a lot of experience dealing with a diverse spectrum of adults, including women and men, who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however, waiting times for NHS services are more lengthy. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then schedule subsequent appointments if required. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate the condition. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You may also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you could 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 the assessment time and titration costs. adhd assessment private offer titration apart from diagnosis and can be less expensive. Find Out More takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after 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 in desperation. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of instances where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later removed. This is a problem since it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed, and some of them have been prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurers cover these assessments however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers you to an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and carry out an assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosing. They will also check for co-morbidities or other mental health issues. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring an adult or a relative to assist you with the information. The test will typically require a few sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought it to light. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his doctor said that he did not have it. The BBC argued that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication under strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to 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 after an individual diagnosis. They feel they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they require.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You should be able to determine the estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better as well as help them as well as their family and friends better assist them. It can also help them identify the right treatment strategy. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK patients have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for a private assessment by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. This will help you save time and also a visit to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months however, it will provide you with a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You must make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is either a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment could include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrists. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood experiences and other aspects. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in school, work, and relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you have that could indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. They will also offer medication if needed. They will also help you access other forms of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. If you are a student, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not ideal to cut corners however the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. As a result, there are some who try to reduce costs by using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments but with no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even as long as they are able to afford it.