ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. They may also ask for older school reports or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is crucial that the person who is conducting your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This applies to both GPs and psychiatrists.
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 has profound effects on people's lives. The situation is even worse in certain areas, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the increasing awareness of the condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private health care from any provider.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults who want an assessment has grown exponentially and is currently surpassing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults, and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the accuracy of private assessments, and the potential for them to misdiagnose the illness. The issue was brought to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have claimed that the program is perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people with ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people have to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to fix this problem. In the meantime, if you think you might be suffering from ADHD You can take advantage of 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 they do not come with prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis when you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration services. These clinics have plenty of experience dealing with a diverse spectrum of adults, including women and men, who might suffer from ADHD. They also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however the waiting times for NHS services are much longer. Typically, you will pay for a first assessment and then have follow-up appointments as needed. If you have insurance that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a specific interest in ADHD. The initial appointment will usually consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You might be asked to complete questionnaires, and then referred here for further tests, such as an MRI.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and can be cheaper. However, the process of titration can be longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after 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 variety of instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a serious problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse consequences.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. Most health insurance plans will cover these tests however it is important to check with your insurance provider to see if your policy covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and perform a clinical assessment. They will assess whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also search for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options that are available, including medication if required.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring your family member or friend to assist you with the information. It usually requires a few sessions for the evaluation to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after a Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his doctor said 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 to further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs refuse to sign a contract for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the care of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They believe that they're 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 get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You should be able to determine the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health service, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Being diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It not only helps people understand themselves better as well as help them as well as their family and friends better help them. In addition, it could assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. It's not always easy to obtain an accurate diagnosis. In the UK people must wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be frustrating for those seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it's possible to self-refer for a private assessment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This can save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. This is a lengthy process that could take months. However it will provide you with an accurate diagnosis than the ones offered by the NHS. It is important to ensure that the person performing the assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a consultation with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If necessary, they'll also prescribe medication. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as tutoring and support for your study skills. They will also help with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a university student.
While it's not the best idea to take short cuts, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. Some people attempt to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with not having any medical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there is no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.