ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and rule out other disorders like depression or thyroid. They can also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have an impact on people's daily lives. The situation is worse in certain regions, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment through private healthcare providers. This has been made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private healthcare from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, and is currently outpacing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety that are frequently present in ADHD.
However, many people are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the condition. The issue was brought to the public's attention after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about those with ADHD.
However, the BBC should be praised for exposing this issue and highlighting the dire situation of adults who need 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. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD You can try a free screening with an organization, or pay for an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek out a diagnosis if you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are a variety of private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics are usually very familiar with the vast range of adults who may have ADHD which includes women and men. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly, but they are usually more efficient than NHS waiting times. You will typically pay for the initial assessment, and then schedule subsequent appointments if required. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to assess it. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You may also be required to complete questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this can be less expensive. However, the process of titration is longer and requires more 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 variety of cases where patients received the diagnosis of ADHD, which was later removed. This is problematic because it can be extremely stressful for people to be incorrectly identified, and some of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the adjustment. Most health insurance plans will cover these tests but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to see if your policy will cover it.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to an expert clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and perform an assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They will also search for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. These are often depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you must bring a trusted person or relative along to provide any additional information. It typically takes a few visits to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive examination, while others only look for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP said that he didn't suffer from it. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs are unwilling to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the patient's care to the NHS after a private diagnoses. They feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to get the care they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to do so. You can determine the estimated waiting time by calling the local mental health services, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service which will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It helps people better understand themselves as well as their family and friends. It can also help them identify the right treatment plan. However, obtaining a diagnosis is not always straightforward. Especially in the UK where people are facing long waiting times for an assessment by the NHS. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This will help you save time and a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time, but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person performing the assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at school, at work or in relationships. They will also talk about any other symptoms you have which could be indicative of ADHD.
This will produce a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. If needed, private adhd assessment adults may also prescribe medication. They will also help you access other forms of support, including mentoring and study skills support. If you're a student, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to cut corners, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and lack of clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis when they can afford it.