ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other illnesses like thyroid issues or depression. They might also request older school reports or other evidence.
It is crucial that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has significant impact on the lives of people. In certain areas waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is being worsened by the growing awareness of the condition and a rise in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand, and many patients opt to take care of themselves through private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that provides an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The number of adults requesting an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently surpassing the capacity of the service. If you choose to go the private route are typically much better served, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the accuracy of private assessments, and the potential for them to misdiagnose the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following due process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
However, the BBC deserves praise for exposing the issue and highlighting the suffering of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require assistance are required to seek it privately, and the NHS must come up with ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you think you may have ADHD You can take advantage of a free screening with a charity or request an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but they do not come with prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis when you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics have a lot of experience with a wide spectrum of adults, including women and men who may suffer from ADHD. They are also able to test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but they are usually more efficient than NHS waiting times. You will typically pay for the initial assessment, and then make subsequent appointments if required. These appointments will be covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate it. The initial appointment will typically consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires and you could be referred to further tests like an MRI or EEG.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. However the process of titration is longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD but were later withdrawn. This is a problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and some patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments but it's worth checking with your insurer to determine if your policy does.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform a clinical assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also look for co-morbidities, or other mental health issues. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment that are available, including medication if required.
During the assessment you will be asked questions about your family background and current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you are taking. The interview will be organized and you may bring an adult or a relative to assist you with the information. It usually requires a few sessions for the evaluation to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought it to the fore. The reporter on the programme was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his doctor insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC said that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however doctors read more 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 and is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the NHS after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications to their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD evaluation in the event that they haven't yet. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service which is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. Not only does it help individuals better understand themselves as well as help them and their family and friends better assist them. It can also help them identify the right treatment strategy. It is not always simple to get an accurate diagnosis. In the UK, people have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be frustrating for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you cannot 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 process that can take a few months. However, it will give you an accurate diagnosis that those provided by the NHS. It is important to ensure that the person who conducts your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment could include an interview with a psychiatrist. There will be questions about your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also utilize rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that may indicate 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 can also assist you to access other forms of assistance, like mentorship and support for studying skills. They will also help you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a university student.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people attempt to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer quick appointments and lack of expert clinical knowledge. These methods should be avoided, but there's no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.