ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a pretty thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other illnesses, such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also ask for old school records or other supporting evidence.
It is vital that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for psychiatrists and GPs alike.
Waiting times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health disorder and that it has major impacts on people's lives. The situation is even worse in some regions, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The issue is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. 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 medications for the NHS. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of adults seeking an assessment, which is currently outpacing its capacity. Those who choose to go the private route are generally much better off, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
However, many are still worried about the assessment of private patients and the risk of them over-diagnosing the disease. The issue came to the attention of the public when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were giving diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the program of perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people suffering from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to remedy this situation. If you suspect that you may have ADHD Try a no-cost screening with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to evaluate you. These are typically cheaper than the NHS, but will not issue prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD It is crucial to get a diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and titration. These clinics have plenty of experience working with a broad range adults, including men and women, who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however the wait time for NHS services are more lengthy. You will typically pay for the initial assessment, and then make subsequent appointments if required. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires and referred for additional tests, such as an MRI.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. The process of titration takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances in which patients received a diagnosis of ADHD and then withdrawn. This is problematic because it can be extremely depressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly identified, and some patients have been prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the adjustment. Most health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's worthwhile to verify whether you're covered.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and conduct a clinical assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosis. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The clinician will discuss with you the options for treatment, including medication if necessary.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and at work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring an adult or a relative to help you through the process. The test will typically require a few sessions to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics will offer a comprehensive evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. The reporter on the programme was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his doctor insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication under strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS as it is the only way that they can transfer the patient's care to the NHS following the patient has received a private diagnosis. This is because they feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to refer you. You can determine your estimated waiting time either by calling the local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It helps people better understand themselves and also their family and friends. It also helps them find the right treatment plan. It is not always simple to get an assessment. In the UK, people have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. adhd assessment for adults private can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private evaluation. This will save you time and a trip to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take a long time, but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person performing your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your current challenges at school, at work, or in relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience that could indicate the presence of ADHD.
This will produce a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will provide to your GP with your permission. They will also recommend medication if needed. They can also help with other forms of support, including studying skills and mentoring. They will also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a student at university.
It is not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. In the end, there are people who try to reduce costs through online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments, but offer no expertise in clinical practice. These methods should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis when they can afford it.