ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and also rule out other medical conditions, such as thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This applies to GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting several times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to consult psychiatrists for years. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health disorder and has profound effects on people's lives. The situation is even worse in some regions, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the growing awareness of this condition as well as the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private health care from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults who seek an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to overdiagnose a condition. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people with ADHD.
However, the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the plight of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some of those who need this help are being required to seek it privately and the NHS should come up with ways to deal with the issue. If you think you might have ADHD Consider a no-cost screening through an organization or charity, or pay for an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess you. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is crucial to get a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are a variety of private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have a lot of experience working with a broad spectrum of adults, including men and women, who may suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however the wait times for NHS services are much longer. Typically, you will pay for an initial assessment and then be able to schedule subsequent appointments as required. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. The initial appointment will normally include clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires, and you may be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration fees. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and are less expensive. However, the process of titration takes longer and requires more 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 desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of instances where patients were diagnosed of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a problem because it can be extremely stressful for people to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and some of them have been prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the adjustment. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP recommends you to an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and carry out an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosing. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. These include anxiety and depression. The doctor will discuss with you the treatment options that are available, including medication if required.
During the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background as well as the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you should bring a trusted friend or relative with you to provide any additional information. It usually requires a few sessions for the evaluation to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP said he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs are unwilling to sign an agreement for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way they can transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment request them to do cheap adhd assessment so. You can determine the estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service that 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, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better assist them. Additionally, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment strategy. However, getting a diagnosis is not always easy. In the UK, people have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you cannot wait, you can refer yourself to an expert psychiatrist for a private assessment. It will help you save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take months, but it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person conducting your assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment may include a clinical interview conducted by psychiatrist. Questions will be asked about your mental health, your childhood history and other factors. The doctor will also use rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also talk about other signs that may be indicative of ADHD.
This will produce an extensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. If necessary, they'll also prescribe medication. They can also assist you to get other types of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. If you are a student, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It is not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. Some people attempt to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with quick appointments and lack of medical expertise. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there's no reason to think that people suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.