ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually a fairly comprehensive process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and rule out other conditions such as depression or thyroid. They might also request old school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This applies to GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult a psychiatrist. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder with an impact on the lives of people. The situation is more difficult in some regions, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition and a rise in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private healthcare 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 who seek an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults and are better able to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany 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 public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper process. Some have accused the program of propagating stigma and stereotypes about people with ADHD.
However, the BBC deserves praise for exposing the issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some are forced to seek assistance privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you think you may have ADHD You can take advantage of the free test offered by a charity or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS however they will not issue prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis if you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will help you manage your symptoms and prescribe medications. You could be recommended to a psychiatrist additional therapy. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and titration. These clinics have plenty of experience dealing with a diverse spectrum of adults, including women and men, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they are typically more efficient than NHS waiting times. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate the condition. The initial appointment will typically involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You may also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you may be referred to further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. The process of titration can take longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later removed. This is a serious issue since it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will assess whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. These are often anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked about your family history and your current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct an organized interview. You should bring an experienced person or relative along to provide collateral information. It usually takes a few sessions for the assessment to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full examination, while others only look for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness 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 insisted that he did not have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS and is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the service following the patient has received a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD evaluation in the event that they haven't yet. You should be able to determine the estimated waiting time by contacting the local mental health services or 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
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. Not only does it help people understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their family and friends better support them. It can also help them determine the best treatment strategy. It's not always easy to determine a diagnosis. Particularly in the UK where people are facing long waiting times for an assessment by the NHS. This can be frustrating for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an assessment in private by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. You'll save time and avoid having to check here go to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take months, but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to make sure that the person running your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private evaluation will likely consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will also utilize ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles at work, school, and relationships. They will also address any other signs you may have which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They will also offer medications if they are needed. They will also assist you in obtaining other types of assistance, such as tutoring and study skills. They will also help you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a student at university.
It's not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to save money by using online assessments or private clinics with short appointments and not having any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there's no reason why those suffering from ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.