ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other disorders like depression or thyroid. They may also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is vital that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD expert. This applies to psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. The condition is acknowledged as a serious mental disorder with an impact on the daily lives of people. The situation is worse in some areas, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently over its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are usually much better off, as private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety which are often associated in ADHD.
Many are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to misdiagnose the disease. The issue was brought to the attention of the public when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were giving diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have even claimed that the program is promoting stigma and stereotypes against those with ADHD.
However, the BBC deserves praise for exposing the issue and highlighting the dire situation of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS must find a way to fix this problem. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD You can try the free test offered by a charity or request an assessment from a private psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS but they do not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to get a diagnosis. A clear diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You may be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics are generally adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD, including both genders. They are also able to screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly, but they are usually significantly faster than NHS waiting times. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are able to evaluate it. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You may also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you may be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. However the process of titration can be longer and requires more appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number instances in which patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later removed. This is a problem because it can be extremely depressing for people to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and a few of them were prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments, but it's worth checking with your insurer to see if your policy covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit a specialist clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing. They will also check for co-morbidities, or other mental health check here issues. Most often, these are anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues 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 experienced friend or relative with you to provide collateral information. The test will typically take a few sessions to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he didn't suffer from ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but GPs can only refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS, which is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the NHS after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which can make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they need.
Request your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment If they haven't done so already. You can determine the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD Assessment service that is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. It helps people better understand their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It also assists them to find the right treatment plan. However, getting an assessment isn't always easy. Especially in the UK where patients have to wait for a long time for an assessment by the NHS. This can be a major issue for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for a private assessment with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. You'll be able to save time and avoid a visit to your GP. This isn't a fast procedure and could take months but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person running the test is a psychiatrist or psychologist, as these are the only healthcare professionals competent to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment will likely consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist, which will include questions regarding your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, at school, or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other signs that might indicate ADHD.
This will result in a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as mentorship and support for studying skills. They can also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university.
It is not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. This means that there are some who try to reduce costs by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments but with no clinical expertise. These methods are not recommended, but there is no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.