ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various 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 lives of people. The situation is even worse in some areas, with waiting periods as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The problem is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and a rise in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are opting to seek treatment from private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. The number of adults requesting an assessment has grown exponentially and is currently surpassing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety, which can often be present with ADHD.
Many people are worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the correct procedure. Some have accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing the issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some of those who need this help are being required to seek it privately, and the NHS must come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD, you can try a free screening with a charity, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are typically cheaper than the NHS, but will not issue prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is crucial to receive a diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be advised to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are a variety of private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics are usually very familiar with the vast range of adults who may have ADHD as well as women and men. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically more efficient than NHS waiting times. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if necessary. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are certified to assess it. The initial appointment will normally involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you could be referred to additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
It is possible 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 titration fees. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this may be less expensive. However the process of titration can be longer and requires additional 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 turning to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation revealed a number of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later removed. This is a serious problem, as it can be extremely stressful check here for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. Most health insurers offer these tests however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. These include anxiety and depression. The doctor will discuss with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you must bring a trusted family member or friend along to provide any additional information. The examination will typically require several sessions to reach a diagnosis. Some clinics will provide a comprehensive evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his GP claimed that he did not have the condition. The BBC said that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however doctors can only refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS, which is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the NHS following a private diagnosis. This is because they feel that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the care they require.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD evaluation in the event that they haven't yet. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health clinic or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter 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 assist them. It also assists them to identify the right treatment plan. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always easy. Particularly in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be a problem for many people who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This can save you time and a trip to your GP. It is a long process that can take a few months. However it will provide you with an accurate diagnosis that those offered by the NHS. It is important to make sure that the person conducting the test is a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment will likely include a consultation with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your current struggles at school, at work, or in relationships. They will also talk about any other symptoms you have which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They can also help with other forms of help, like tutoring and study skills. If you're students, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It is not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. This means that there are people who try to cut costs by using online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments with little or no clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, but there is no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.