ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually a fairly comprehensive process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other disorders like depression or thyroid. They may also request old school reports and other supporting evidence.
It is essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that has a significant impact on the daily lives of people. In some areas, waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is worsened by the growing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private healthcare from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults who seek an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression, which can often be present with ADHD.
However, many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and their potential to over-diagnose the condition. The issue came to the public's attention after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were giving diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have accused the program of perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of those with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who require this help are being required to seek it privately and the NHS needs to work out ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you think you may have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity, or take advantage of an assessment by an individual psychiatrist. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You may also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have a lot of experience dealing with a diverse spectrum of adults, including women and men who may suffer from ADHD. 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 will pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule subsequent appointments as required. If you are insured and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You could be asked to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, such as an MRI.
It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time and the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this can be less expensive. Titration process takes longer and requires appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a problem since it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly identified, and some of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worthwhile to verify if you have coverage.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask questions and perform a clinical evaluation. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they meet the diagnostic criteria. private adhd assessment uk will also look 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 necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at work and home. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. The interview will be organized and you may bring an adult or a relative to help you with the information. The assessment will usually require several sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics will provide an extensive evaluation, whereas others will focus on specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his doctor said that he did not have it. The BBC argued that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the service after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for their patients to get the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment request them to refer you. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health services, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Being diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. It not only helps people understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better support them. It also helps them determine the best treatment strategy. It is not always simple to obtain a diagnosis. In the UK, people have to wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for those seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. You'll save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take a few months. However, it will give you a more accurate diagnoses than the ones offered by the NHS. You must ensure that the person performing your test is either psychiatrist or psychologist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment could include a clinical interview conducted by psychiatrist. Questions will be asked regarding your mental health, your childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also utilize rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles with work, school, and relationships. They will also discuss any other signs you may have that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If needed, they may also prescribe medication. They can also assist with other forms of help, like tutoring and study skills. If you are a student, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. This means that there are some who try to reduce costs through online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments but with no clinical expertise. These methods are not recommended, but there's no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.