ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is important that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for psychiatrists and GPs alike.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to consult a psychiatrist. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder with a significant impact on the lives of people. In some regions, waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is made worse by the increasing awareness of the condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and many patients are opting to seek treatment from private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that provides an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. It has seen an explosion in the number of people seeking an assessment, which exceeds its capacity at present. If you choose to go the private route are typically more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression that are often associated with ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose 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 due process. Some have even claimed that the program is promoting stigma and stereotypes against those who suffer from ADHD.
However, the BBC should be praised for exposing the issue and highlighting the suffering of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people have to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD, you can try a free screening with a charity, or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are typically cheaper than the NHS, but will not issue prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to receive a diagnosis. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You may be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics offering diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have a lot of experience dealing with a diverse range adults, including men and women, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
private adhd assessment are expensive, but the waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then make subsequent appointments if 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 certified and have a specific interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You might be required to complete questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, for example, an MRI.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as the titration fee. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis, and may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances where patients were given an assessment of ADHD but were later taken off. This is a serious issue, as it can be very distressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. Most health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The doctor will discuss with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During the examination you will be asked about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring your family member or friend to help you through the process. It usually takes a few sessions for the assessment to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought it to light. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his GP insisted that he did not have the condition. The BBC argued that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however GPs can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way that they can transfer the patient's care to the NHS following an individual diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the care they require.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment If they haven't done so already. You can find out the estimated waiting time by calling the local mental health services, or by using the Right To Choose website. 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 transform your life. It aids people in understanding themselves as well as their family and friends. In addition, it could assist them in finding a suitable treatment strategy. It's not always easy to obtain an assessment. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a major issue for those seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it is possible to request an assessment in private with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. This can save you time and also a visit to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take a long time however, it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is essential to ensure that the person who conducts the test is a psychologist or psychiatrist since they are the only healthcare professionals competent to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment is likely to consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at school, at work or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They may also prescribe medication if appropriate. They can also help you in obtaining other types of help, like tutoring and study skills. They will also help you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at a university.
While it is not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. In the end, there are some who try to reduce costs by using online assessments or private clinics that provide quick appointments but with any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there is no reason why people with ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.