Be On The Lookout For: How Private ADHD Diagnosis Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. private adhd assessments will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape for example, the need for old school reports to be provided. However, you can skip the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting in which you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms, and how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The procedure involves an organized interview with an expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood until adulthood. They will also determine if there are any other neurological or mental health issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, including relationships or work, and will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not a straight straightforward one. Many people who are told they suffer from the disorder have a multi-faceted diagnosis. It is crucial to remember that the three most prominent symptoms are inattentiveness, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. Adult hyperactivity can differ from the raucous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It could be characterized by restlessness or a constant race. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, being organised or sitting down.
If you think that medication could aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
You might find your GP isn't keen to refer you, or doesn't give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile changing GPs - you can find out more about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist on your own via the NHS or privately. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How do I obtain a private evaluation?
ADHD is a nexus of mental condition that affects brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will assist you in understanding the impact of these symptoms on your life and can help you determine ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unwilling to do this, you may want to find another GP willing to assist you.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). This is because they are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a medical interview in person or via video call. private adhd assessments will usually last for 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked regarding your current problems and also your history since your childhood. private assessments for adhd will determine if you have any of the symptoms associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide examples of when you have displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will utilize these to establish an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and aren't willing to wait for an appointment from the NHS, obtaining an assessment privately is beneficial. However, it is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will still need to discuss this with them and if you decide to test medication, it is recommended that you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England will send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to Choose" process where you can request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This will significantly cut down on waiting times. Private providers can also provide rapid diagnosis.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it could take a while to find one, as they are not easily accessible. Some clinics insist on a GP referral before they will make an appointment. However this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists are able to assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can help you manage symptoms. However, they are unable to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist with expertise is able to diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are a result of ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues that you might have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can provide you with the most effective treatment.
You'll need to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication under a shared-care agreement with your GP. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for an private diagnosis, we would recommend you speak with your GP prior to scheduling an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and can give their consent, if needed.
It's also worth considering joining an online support group to connect with others who suffer from ADHD and to hear about their stories and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter who was undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were rushed and did not consider all the symptoms or the consequences of ADHD on the lives of people. It also raised concerns that patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pocket to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is no doubt that your GP will recommend one of the major private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory), but they will tell you that there will be a possible waiting period. This varies from provider to provider, but is typically around six weeks. Ask your family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. If you choose a well-established and reputable company, you'll probably have less wait time than if you go to your GP.
During the examination, a psychiatrist will, in a way determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will want to rule out any other causes such as depression, anxiety or thyroid problems and will typically require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school reports if required. This can be a difficult process, particularly for those who have more complicated family situations or for those who aren't able to find their school records from childhood.
Once you have been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. However, you must be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document called the shared care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and have not been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.