ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms cause significant impairment, and also rule out other medical conditions, such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also ask for older school reports or other evidence.
It is important that the person who is conducting your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to see psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health disorder and that it has significant 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 action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the growing awareness of the condition and the increasing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a large number of patients are opting to seek treatment through private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select 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 people seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. People who opt to take the private route are generally much better off, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness that are often associated with ADHD.
Many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to overdiagnose a illness. The issue came to the public's attention when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have claimed that the program is perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people suffering from ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this problem and highlighting the dire situation of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people have to seek help 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 an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess your. These are typically cheaper than the NHS however they will not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will help you manage your symptoms and also prescribe medication. You could be advised to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics have lots of experience dealing with a diverse spectrum of adults, including women and men, who might suffer from ADHD. They also look for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but the waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you pay for the initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are qualified to assess the condition. Initial appointments usually involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You might also be asked to fill out questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as the cost of titration. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a serious issue because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment as well as the adjustment. The majority of health insurance companies cover these assessments but it's worth checking with your insurer to see if your policy covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and carry out a clinical assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that might be present. Most often, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During the test you will be asked about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also ask you about any medications that you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you should bring a trusted family member or friend along to provide collateral information. It typically takes a few visits to establish a diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive assessment, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of an 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 claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS, which is the only way that they can transfer the patient's care to the hospital after an individual diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the care they require.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You can determine the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health clinic, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD Assessment service that is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. Not only does it help individuals understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their family and friends better assist them. private adhd assessment adults can also help them find the right treatment plan. It's not always easy to get a diagnosis. In the UK people must wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private evaluation. You'll save time and avoid having to go to your GP. This isn't a fast procedure and could take months however, it will give you more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person performing your test is either psychiatrist or psychologist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will utilize 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.
This will result in a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your consent. They will also recommend medication if appropriate. They can also assist you in obtaining other types of help, like studying skills and mentoring. If you're an undergraduate student, they can assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not the best idea to cut corners, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. As a result, there are people who try to cut the line by using online assessments and private clinics that offer short appointments, but offer any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there's no reason to think that those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment if they are able to afford it.