ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and also rule out other illnesses such as thyroid or depression. They may also ask for older school reports or other evidence.
It is crucial that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has major impacts on people's lives. In some areas waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the increasing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private healthcare providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private healthcare from any provider.
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 surpassing the capacity of the service. Those who choose to go the private route are typically much better served, as private psychiatrists are more adept at 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 worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to over-diagnose the disease. The issue came to the attention of the public when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have even claimed that the program is promoting stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
However, the BBC should be praised for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some of those who need assistance are forced to seek it out privately, and the NHS should come up with ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you think you may have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are typically cheaper than the NHS but they do not give prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek a diagnosis when you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can aid in managing your symptoms and prescribe medications. private adhd assessment may be referred to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are a variety of private clinics offering diagnosis and titration services. These clinics have lots of experience with a wide range of adults, both men and women, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, wait time for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments will be 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 assess it. The initial appointment will typically consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You may also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you might be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. Titration process takes longer and requires appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances where patients were given an assessment of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a problem since it can be extremely depressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and a few of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment as well as the adjustment. The majority of health insurance companies will cover these tests but it's worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the diagnostic criteria. They will also look for co-morbidities, or other mental health issues. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During the test during the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background as well as current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you're taking. They will then conduct an organized interview, and you must bring an experienced friend or relative with you to provide additional information. The examination will typically require several sessions to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought it to the fore. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his GP claimed that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS as it is the only way they can refer their patient's treatment to the hospital following the patient has received a private diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they require.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You can find out the estimated waiting time by calling the local mental health services, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It aids people in understanding themselves and also their family and friends. In addition, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment strategy. It's not always easy to obtain an assessment. In the UK, people have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can cause anxiety for many people who want to be diagnosed with 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 isn't a fast process and can take months, but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person performing your test is either a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment could include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrists. There will be questions about your mental health, childhood history and other factors. The doctor will also utilize rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that might be indicative of ADHD.
This will result in an extensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They will also help you find other ways of support, such as tutoring and support for your study skills. If you're an undergraduate student, they can assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not the best idea to cut corners, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. In the end, there are people who try to cut costs through online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments but with no expertise in clinical practice. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there's no reason why people suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.