ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extensive process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They might also request old school records or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is essential that the person carrying out your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder with an impact on people's daily lives. In certain areas, waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand, and many patients opt to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. It has seen a surge in the number of people seeking an assessment, which is currently outpacing its capacity. Those who choose to go the private route are typically much better served, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities like depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many are still worried about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose a disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the correct procedure. Some have accused the program of perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people suffering from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who need this assistance are being forced to seek it privately, and the NHS must come up with ways to deal with the issue. If you suspect that you might be suffering from ADHD, try a free screening with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to assess you. These are typically less expensive than the NHS but do not include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is crucial 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, including medication. You could be recommended to a psychiatrist additional treatment. There are a variety of private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics have lots of experience working with a broad range adults, including men and women, who might suffer from ADHD. They also can screen for co-morbidities like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are costly, but the waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you pay for the initial assessment and then have subsequent appointments as required. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to assess the condition. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You might also be asked to fill out questionnaires click here and referred for additional tests, for example, an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. Titration process takes longer and requires 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 deciding to go to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases in which patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later removed. This is a serious issue because it can be extremely distressing for patients to be wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse consequences.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it is worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and conduct an assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. These include anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication, if necessary.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background and your current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring an adult or a relative to help you understand the information. The test will typically take a few sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. 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 claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medications in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for their patients to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment request them to refer you. You can determine the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health service or by using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It helps people better understand themselves and also their family and friends. Additionally, it can help them find a good treatment plan. It's not always easy to get an assessment. In the UK people must wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an appointment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. You'll reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take several months. However, it will give you a more accurate diagnoses that those provided by the NHS. You must ensure that the person conducting your assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your current struggles at school, at work or in relationships. They will also discuss any other symptoms you have which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of support, including studying skills and mentoring. If you're 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. In the end, there are those who attempt to cut the line through online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments but with no clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.