ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and rule out other conditions like thyroid or depression. They can also request old school reports as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person who is conducting your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left 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 that it has significant impacts on people's lives. In certain areas waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the increasing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. 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 recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety which are often associated in ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the condition. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is spreading stigma and stereotyping about people suffering from ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the dire situation of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is 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 issue. In the meantime, if you think you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are usually cheaper than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can assist you in managing your symptoms and take medication. You may be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. 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 as well as both genders. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they are typically much quicker than NHS waiting times. You will typically pay for the initial assessment, and then schedule follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You could be required to complete questionnaires and referred for additional tests, for example, an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and can be less expensive. However the process of titration can be longer and requires a number of appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years for an NHS evaluation, before going to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later removed. This is a problem because it can be extremely depressing for people to be incorrectly identified, and some of them were prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. Most health insurance plans offer these tests but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if your policy will cover it.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers to an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and perform a clinical evaluation. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and determine if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also check for co-morbidities or other mental health issues. Most often, these are anxiety and depression. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During the assessment during the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview. You should bring a trusted person or relative along to provide collateral information. The test will typically require a few sessions to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP said that he did not have it. The BBC argued that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS as it is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the hospital after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications for their patients, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to refer you. You can determine the estimated waiting time by contacting your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. Not only does it help individuals 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. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always straightforward. Especially in the UK where patients are facing long waiting times for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating 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 a private assessment by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. You'll reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. It is a long process that can take several months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than the ones provided by the NHS. You must ensure that the person performing your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your struggles at work, in school, or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
This will result in a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your consent. private adhd assessment uk may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They will also assist you in obtaining other types of help, like studying skills and mentoring. They will also help you in applying for Disabled Student Allowance if are a student at a university.
While it is not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. As a result, there are people who try to reduce costs by using online assessments and private clinics that offer short appointments but with any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there is no reason why people suffering from ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.