ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other medical conditions such as thyroid issues or depression. They can also request old school records and other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD expert. This applies to psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting several times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder that can have an impact on people's daily lives. The situation is more difficult in certain areas, with waiting periods as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The issue is made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition and the increasing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting 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.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The number of adults requesting an assessment has exploded and is currently surpassing its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are typically much better off, as private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness that are often associated with ADHD.
However, many are still worried about the assessment of private patients and the potential for them to over-diagnose the illness. The issue came to the attention of the public when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about people with ADHD.
However, the BBC deserves praise for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people are forced to seek assistance privately. The NHS must find a way to remedy this situation. If you suspect that you may have ADHD, try a free screening with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to evaluate you. They are usually less expensive than the NHS but they do not give a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD, it is important to get a diagnosis. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. private adhd assessment uk could be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are numerous private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics are usually very adept with the various types of adults with ADHD as well as men and women. They also test for co-morbidities like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, they are generally more efficient than NHS waiting times. Typically, you'll pay for an initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments if needed. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are certified to assess the condition. The initial appointment will usually consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and are cheaper. However, the process of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances in which patients received an assessment of ADHD but were later withdrawn. This is a problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and some of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments however it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if appropriate.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. The interview will be organized and you may bring along a friend or relative to assist you with the information. It usually takes a few visits for the assessment to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer an entire evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. The reporter on the programme 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 an example of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However doctors are only permitted to refer patients to further investigation or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications for their patients, which may make it difficult for them to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask for it. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health clinic, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It can help people understand themselves and also their family and friends. In addition, it can help them find a good treatment strategy. However, getting an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. Particularly in the UK where people are waiting for long periods for an assessment from the NHS. This can cause frustration for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private evaluation. It will help you save time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy process that can take several months. However it will provide you with more precise diagnoses than the ones provided by the NHS. You should ensure that the person conducting your assessment is either psychiatrist or psychologist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private assessment could include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. Questions will be asked about your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that might indicate ADHD.
This will result in a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will provide to your GP with your permission. They will also recommend medication if needed. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. If you're a student, they will assist you in applying 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 cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with quick appointments and lack of clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis when they can afford it.