ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough process. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and also rule out other conditions, such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also request older school reports or other evidence.
It is important that the person performing your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and that it has major impact on the lives of people. In some areas waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The issue is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has exploded, and is currently exceeding its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are generally much better off, as private psychiatrists are used 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 that can be a result of ADHD.
However, many people are still worried 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 the proper process. Some have accused the program of propagating stigma and stereotypes about people suffering from ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, for exposing the issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some of those who need this help are being forced to seek it privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you suspect you may have ADHD You can try an assessment for free with a charity or pay for an assessment from a private psychiatrist. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could also be recommended to a psychiatrist additional treatment. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and titration. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD, including women and men. They also can screen for co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically significantly faster than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for an initial assessment and then be able to schedule subsequent appointments as required. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are qualified to evaluate the condition. The initial appointment will usually include clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires and you could 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 cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. However, the process of titration can be longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a serious problem, as it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. The majority of health insurance companies will cover these tests however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if your policy will cover it.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers to a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview. You should bring an adult family member or friend along to provide any additional information. The test will typically require several sessions to reach a diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an entire evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the inadequate service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought it to light. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - while his GP insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC argued that adhd diagnosis uk private the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement to share care with the how much does it cost for a private adhd assessment NHS, which is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They feel they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that many private psychiatrists will here not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
If click here your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You can find out your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service which is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. Not only does it help people understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better help them. Additionally, it can help them find a good treatment plan. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Especially in the UK, where people are facing long waiting times for an assessment by the NHS. This can be a problem for many people who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. It will help you save time and avoid a visit to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take a long time but it will give you more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is crucial to ensure that the person running your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals competent to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private evaluation could involve a clinical website interview conducted by a psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions regarding your mental health, your childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of support, including study skills and mentoring. They will also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a university student.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. This means that there are people who try to cut costs by using online assessments and private clinics that offer short appointments, but offer no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, however there's no reason why people suffering from ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.