ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a pretty thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They can also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have a significant impact on the daily lives of people. In certain areas, waiting times can last 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 growing awareness of this condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling with the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. It has seen a surge in the number of adults who seek an assessment, which exceeds its capacity at present. People who opt to take the private route are generally much better off, as private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety which are often associated in ADHD.
However, many are still concerned about the assessment of private patients and the risk of them over-diagnosing the condition. The issue came to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stigma and stereotyping against people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people have to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to address this issue. In the meantime, if you suspect you might have ADHD You can try the free test offered by a charity, or take advantage of an assessment by private psychiatrists. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but do not include prescriptions.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD It is essential to be diagnosed. A correct diagnosis can aid in managing your symptoms and take medication. You may be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics have a lot of experience working with a broad range adults, including women and men, who may suffer from ADHD. They also can screen for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you will pay for an initial assessment, and then subsequent appointments as required. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You will also be required to answer questionnaires, and you may be referred to further tests like an MRI or EEG.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis, and may be cheaper. The process of titration can take longer and requires appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances in which patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a serious problem, as it can be extremely stressful for patients to be misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse consequences.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it is important to check whether you're covered.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP suggests you visit a specialist clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they meet the diagnostic criteria. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The clinician will discuss with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
During the assessment, you will be asked about your family background as well as the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. They will then conduct an organized interview, and you must bring an adult person or relative along to provide collateral information. It typically takes a few visits for the assessment to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an entire evaluation, while others will focus on specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor service offered to patients with ADHD in the NHS has brought the issue to light. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP claimed he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication under strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the hospital following the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications for their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need.
Request your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You should be able to find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health services or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their family and friends better help them. In addition, it could help them find a good treatment plan. It is not always simple to get a diagnosis. In the UK patients have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a major issue for those looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. This will save you time and a trip to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take a long time, but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is crucial to make sure that the person conducting your assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the only healthcare professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment is likely to include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions regarding your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles with school, at work, and in relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. They will also recommend medication if needed. They can also assist you to find other ways of support, such as tutoring and support for your study skills. They will also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at a university.
It's not ideal to cut corners however the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. As a result, there are those who attempt to cut the line by using online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments with little or no clinical expertise. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there's no reason to think that people here with ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment if they are able to afford it.