ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually a fairly comprehensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. They might also request old school records or other supporting evidence.
It is vital that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder that has a significant impact on the lives of people. In certain areas, waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and many patients are opting to seek treatment through private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose private health providers.
One such service 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 who seek an assessment, which exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults and are better equipped to comprehend the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
However, many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the proper process. Some have accused the program of propagating stigma and stereotypes about those with ADHD.
However, the BBC should be commended for exposing this problem and highlighting the suffering of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require this assistance are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS should come up with ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. They're typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to get a diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take 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 the ability to adjust. These clinics have plenty of experience working with a broad spectrum of adults, including men and women, who may suffer from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
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 follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a specific interest in ADHD. The initial appointment will typically include clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you might be referred to further tests like an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time as well as titration fees. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and are less expensive. The process of titration can take longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited three years for an NHS assessment before he went to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later removed. This is a problem because it can be extremely stressful for people to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and a few of them 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 titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it is worthwhile to verify if you have coverage.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers you to an expert clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and carry out an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They will also look for co-morbidities or other mental health issues. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the 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 inquire about any medications you're taking. The interview will be organized and you may bring along a friend or relative to help you through the process. The assessment will usually require a few sessions to reach a diagnosis. Some clinics offer an entire evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought it to light. private adhd assessment of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - while his GP insisted that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however GPs can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS. This is the only way to transfer the patient's care to the NHS following a private 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 their patients to receive the treatment they require.
Request your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment if they haven't already. You should be able to find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health services or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Being diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It not only helps people understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their family and friends better assist them. It also assists them to determine the best treatment plan. It is not always simple to obtain a diagnosis. Especially in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be a major issue for many people who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it is possible to self-refer for an assessment in private with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. This can save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. It is a long process that could take months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than the ones offered by the NHS. You must make sure that the person who is conducting the assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment could include a clinical interview conducted by a psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your current challenges at school, at work, or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other signs that may indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They can also assist you in obtaining other forms of assistance, such as studying skills and mentoring. If you're an undergraduate student, they can assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to make shortcuts however, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. Some people attempt to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer fast appointments but with little or no clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.