ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive procedure. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other conditions such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also request old school records or other evidence.
It is essential that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This applies to both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to see psychiatrists for years. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have a significant impact on the lives of people. In some regions waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is being worsened by the growing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a lot of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private clinics. 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 prescriptions for the NHS. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of adults seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Those who choose to go the private route are generally more successful, since private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression that are frequently associated in ADHD.
However, many people are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the illness. The issue came to the public's attention after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have claimed that the program is promoting stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing the issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you think you might have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity, or take advantage of an assessment by an individual psychiatrist. They are usually less expensive than the NHS, but will not give prescriptions for medication.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are many private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have lots of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities like depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however the waiting time for NHS services are more lengthy. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then make follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are certified and have a specific interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You might also be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to website PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and are cheaper. However the process of titration can be longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received the diagnosis of ADHD, which was later withdrawn. This is problematic because it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and some of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment as well as the adjustment. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments, but it's important to check with your insurance provider to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers to a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and conduct a clinical evaluation. They will determine whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also look for co-morbidities, or other mental health issues. These are often anxiety and depression. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you must bring a trusted person or relative along to provide any additional information. The assessment will usually require several sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP claimed that he did not have it. The BBC claimed that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However doctors are only permitted to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medications in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement to share care with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the service after an individual diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the care they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment request them to refer you. You can find out your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or by using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. It can help people understand themselves as well as their family and friends. It also helps them find the right treatment strategy. However, getting an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can cause anxiety for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to request a private assessment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. You'll be able to save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take a few months. However it will provide you with an accurate diagnosis than those provided by the NHS. It is crucial to ensure that the person who conducts the test is a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in school, work, and relationships. They will also discuss any other symptoms you have that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They can also assist you in obtaining other forms of support, including study skills and mentoring. If you're students, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. As a result, there are people who try to reduce costs by using online assessments or private clinics that provide quick appointments but with no clinical expertise. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there's no reason why people with ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.