ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive process. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and also rule out other conditions like thyroid issues or depression. They might also request old school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is vital that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is true for GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting years to see psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and that it has significant impacts on people's lives. The situation is worse in certain areas, with waiting periods as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK 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 pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private healthcare providers.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in various parts of the country. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, and is currently exceeding its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are generally much better off, as private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and will be more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety, which can often be present in ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to misdiagnose the condition. The issue came to the public's attention after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without due process. Some have even claimed that the program is promoting stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some have to seek help privately. The NHS must find a way to address this issue. If you think you might have ADHD, try a free screening with a charity or pay a private psychiatrist to evaluate your. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is essential to be diagnosed. A proper diagnosis will aid in managing your symptoms and take medications. You could also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Private clinics often offer diagnosis and titration. These clinics are generally adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD, including both genders. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however the waiting time for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments as needed. If you have insurance, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will normally include clinical interviews and rating scales. You might be asked to complete questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time and the cost of titration. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and can be cheaper. The process of titration takes longer and requires appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS evaluation, before going to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a serious issue, as it can be extremely distressing for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the adjustment. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments, but it's worth checking with your insurer to see if your policy will cover it.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests an expert clinic, the physician will ask you questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also search for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. These include depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options, including medication if necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct an organized interview, and you must bring an adult family member or friend along to provide collateral information. It usually takes a few visits for the evaluation to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive examination, while others only look for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after a Panorama investigation. private adhd assessment adults on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP said he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients to further investigation or prescribe medication when they adhere to strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the service after a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they require.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment if they haven't already. You should be able to find out the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health clinic or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service which is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It can help people understand themselves and also their family and friends. It also assists them to identify the right treatment strategy. It's not always easy to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Especially in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time 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 unable to wait, it is possible to request an assessment in private by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. You'll save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This isn't a fast procedure and could take months, but it will give you more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You must ensure that the person performing your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with psychiatrists. There will be questions about your mental health, childhood experiences and other aspects. The doctor will also utilize ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles with work, school, and relationships. The doctor will also address other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They will also help you get other types of assistance, like mentorship and support for studying skills. If you're students, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to cut corners but the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people attempt to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer fast appointments but with not having any expert clinical knowledge. These methods should be avoided. However, those suffering from ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even as long as they are able to afford it.