ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other conditions such as thyroid issues or depression. They might also request old school records or other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person who is conducting your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and has profound effects on people's lives. In some regions waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and an increase in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults requesting an assessment has exploded and is currently surpassing the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. 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 quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the disease. The issue was brought to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people are forced to seek assistance privately. The NHS should find a way to fix this problem. If you suspect that you might have ADHD Try a no-cost test with a charity or pay for an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess you. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but do not include a prescription.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is important to receive a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could also be recommended to a psychiatrist additional therapy. Private clinics often offer diagnosis and adjustment. These clinics are generally adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD which includes men and women. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically much quicker than NHS waiting times. Typically, you pay for the initial assessment and then have follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who have been trained and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You might also be asked to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, like an MRI.
It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and the cost of titration. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this may be less how much does a private adhd assessment cost expensive. The process of titration can take longer and requires appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number of instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is a serious issue, as it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurers offer these tests but it's worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and conduct a clinical evaluation. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also search for co-morbidities or other mental health conditions. Most often, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options and medications if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct an organized interview. You should bring an experienced friend or relative with you to provide any additional information. The assessment will usually require a few sessions to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics will provide an entire evaluation, while others will only test specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought it to light. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP claimed he didn't have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS as it is the only way that they can transfer their patient's care to the hospital following a private diagnosis. They feel they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medication for their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to do so. You can find out the estimated waiting time by contacting your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It not only helps people understand themselves better as well as help them as well as their family and friends better support them. It can also help them identify the right treatment strategy. However, getting an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK patients have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an assessment in private with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. This will save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. It is not an easy process and can take a long time however, it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You must ensure that the person conducting the assessment is either psychiatrist or psychologist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Questions will be asked about your mental health, your childhood history and other factors. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at school, at work, or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They will also offer medication if needed. They can also help you in obtaining other forms of help, like study skills and mentoring. If you're students, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. This means that there are those who attempt to reduce costs by using online assessments or private clinics that offer quick appointments, but offer no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, but there's no reason to think that people suffering from ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.