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 depression or thyroid. They can also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult a psychiatrist. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have an impact on the lives of people. The situation is more difficult in certain areas, with waiting periods up to four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the increasing awareness of this condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. If you choose to go the private route are usually much better served, as private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety which are often present with ADHD.
However, many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the disease. The issue was brought to the attention of the public 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 spreading stigma and stereotyping about those with ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some of those who need this assistance are being required to seek it privately, and the NHS should come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you suspect you might have ADHD You can take advantage of a free screening with an organization, or pay for an assessment from a private psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but do not include a prescription.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to get a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis will help you manage your symptoms and take medications. You may also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are cost of private adhd assessment that provide diagnosis and titration services. These clinics are generally familiar with the vast range of adults with ADHD, including men and women. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however, wait times for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will typically consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires and you could be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time and the cost of titration. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this may be less expensive. However the process of titration takes 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 desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later removed. This is a problem since it can be extremely depressing for people to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and a few patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it is important to check whether you are covered.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and conduct a clinical assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they meet the criteria for diagnosis. They will also check for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if appropriate.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history as well as current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct an organized interview. You should bring an experienced person or relative along to provide collateral information. It typically requires a few sessions to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the inadequate treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought the issue to the fore. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his GP claimed that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the report was a case of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients for further investigation or prescribe medication when they adhere to strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS as it is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the NHS following an individual diagnosis. They believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many 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 evaluation in the event that they haven't yet. You can find out the estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or by visiting 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
Being diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It not only helps people understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their friends and family better support them. In addition, it could aid them in determining a suitable treatment plan. However, getting a diagnosis is not always straightforward. Especially in the UK where people have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can cause anxiety for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you're unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for a private assessment with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. You will be able to save time and avoid having to go to your GP. It is a long process that can take a few months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than those provided by the NHS. It is crucial to make sure that the person who conducts your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, as these are the only healthcare professionals competent to determine ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment is likely to include a consultation with a psychiatrist, including 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. They will also discuss any other signs you may have that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send a comprehensive ADHD report to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medication if appropriate. They will also assist you in obtaining other types of help, like study skills and mentoring. If you are students, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to make shortcuts, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. Some people try to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and little or no medical expertise. These methods should be avoided, but there's no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment if they are able to afford it.