ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a pretty thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing 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 essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and has profound impacts on people's lives. The situation is more difficult in certain areas, with waiting periods as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private healthcare from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS across the country. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults who seek an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. private adhd assessment uk are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression which are often associated with ADHD.
However, many are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is spreading stigma and stereotyping about those with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the suffering of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some have to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you suspect you may have ADHD You can take advantage of the free test offered by a charity, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are typically cheaper than the NHS but they do not issue a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is essential to be diagnosed. A correct diagnosis can aid in managing your symptoms and prescribe medication. You may be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and titration. These clinics have a lot of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men who might suffer from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but they are usually significantly faster than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to evaluate the condition. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You will also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you might be referred for additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time as well as the titration fee. Certain private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. However the process of titration takes longer and requires more appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to a private clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is problematic because it can be extremely depressing for people to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and some patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurers will cover these tests however it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine if the policy you have covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and perform a clinical assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also look for co-morbidities, or other mental health issues. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background as well as current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring an adult person or relative along to provide any additional information. It usually requires a few sessions for the evaluation to arrive at the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive assessment, while others only look for specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP said he didn't have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was a case of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However, GPs are only allowed to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medications in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement to share care with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the service after the patient has received a private diagnosis. This is because they feel 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 get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD evaluation if they haven't already. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health clinic, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It helps people better understand themselves and also their family and friends. It also helps them determine the best treatment strategy. However, getting an assessment isn't always straightforward. Especially in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be a major issue for many people who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you cannot wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. This will save you time and a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months however, it will give you more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person conducting the assessment is either a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment may include a clinical interview conducted by a psychiatrist. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood history and other factors. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other signs that may be indicative of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will provide to your GP with your permission. They will also offer medications if they are needed. They will also assist with other forms of help, like studying skills and mentoring. They will also help you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university.
While it's not the best idea to make shortcuts however, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. In the end, there are those who attempt to cut the line by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments, but offer no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis when they can afford it.