ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other illnesses such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is crucial that the person who is conducting your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This applies to GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has major effects on people's lives. The situation is worse in certain areas, with waiting times up to 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 pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private healthcare providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has grown exponentially, and is currently exceeding the capacity of the service. Those who choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
However, many are concerned about the assessment of private patients and the potential for them to over-diagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following due process. Some have accused the program of spreading stigma and stereotyping about people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, however, for exposing this issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require this assistance are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you might be suffering from ADHD You can take advantage of a free screening with a charity, or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but do not include prescriptions.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. A proper diagnosis will assist you in managing your symptoms and take medication. You may also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration services. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD as well as both genders. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they are typically significantly faster than NHS waiting times. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then make subsequent appointments if required. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You could also be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time and titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited three years for an NHS evaluation, before going to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of instances where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is a problem since it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms wrongly identified, and some patients 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 as well as the titration. Most health insurers will cover these tests but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to see if your policy will cover it.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and conduct a clinical assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they match the diagnostic criteria. They will also check for co-morbidities, or other mental health conditions. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at home and at work. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring an adult or a relative to assist you through the process. The examination will typically take a few sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive examination, while others only look for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the inadequate treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought the issue to light. The reporter on the programme was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his GP insisted that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many GPs refuse to sign an agreement for shared treatment with the NHS. This is the only way to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnoses. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medications for their patients, which may make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. You can find out the estimated waiting time by contacting the local mental health services or using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. Not only does it help individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better support them. In addition, it could aid them in determining a suitable treatment plan. It is not always simple to get a diagnosis. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a major issue for many who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private assessment. It will help you reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months however, it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You must make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to diagnose ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask about your current struggles in work, school, and relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. private adhd assessment uk will also assist you in obtaining other types of support, including tutoring and study skills. If you are students, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not the best idea to make shortcuts but the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. Some people attempt to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with lack of medical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, however there is no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.