ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and also rule out other medical conditions like thyroid or depression. They can also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is essential that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is true for both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have an impact on people's daily lives. The situation is even worse in certain regions, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private healthcare from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults who seek an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety which are often present with ADHD.
However, many are still concerned about the assessment of private patients and the risk of them over-diagnosing the condition. The issue was brought to the attention of the public when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stigma and stereotypes against those who suffer from ADHD.
However, the BBC deserves praise for exposing this issue and highlighting the suffering of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require this help are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD, you can try an assessment for free with a charity, or pay for an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but do not include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek out a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are a variety of private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics are typically experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD as well as men and women. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however, they are generally more efficient than NHS waiting times. Typically, you'll pay for an initial assessment, and then subsequent appointments as required. If you have insurance, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are qualified to evaluate it. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You might be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, such as an MRI.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time and the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis, and may be cheaper. Titration process takes longer and requires more appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances where patients were given the diagnosis of ADHD but were later removed. This is a problem because it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms wrongly identified, and some of them have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurers offer these tests, but it's important to check with your insurance provider to see if your policy does.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also check for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that might be present. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication, if get more info necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at work and home. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring along a friend or relative to help you with the information. The assessment will usually take a few sessions to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP said that he didn't suffer from it. The BBC claimed that the report was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medications in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign a contract for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way they can transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication for their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You can find out your estimated waiting time either by calling your local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service which will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. Not only does it help individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better assist them. It can also help them find the right treatment plan. However, getting a diagnosis is not always easy. In the UK, people have to wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you cannot wait, you can refer yourself to an expert psychiatrist for a private assessment. This can save you time and also a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take several months. However, it will give you an accurate diagnosis than those offered by the NHS. It is important to ensure that the person performing the assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions regarding your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask about your current struggles with work, school, and relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that may be indicative of ADHD.
This will produce an extensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your permission. They may also prescribe medications if they are needed. They can also help you in obtaining other forms of support, including tutoring and study skills. They can also assist you in applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at a university.
It is not ideal 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 fast appointments but with not having any expert clinical knowledge. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, those suffering from ADHD should still seek a diagnosis when they can afford it.