ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other disorders like depression or thyroid. They can also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is important that the person performing your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting at various times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that has an enormous impact on the daily lives of people. In certain areas waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand, and many patients opt to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose private health providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. It has seen a surge in the number of adults who seek an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. People who opt to take the private route are generally more successful, since private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and are more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness that are often associated with ADHD.
Many people are concerned about the accuracy of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose a disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following the correct procedure. Some have accused the program of spreading stigma and stereotyping about people with ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, however, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you might have ADHD You can try a free screening with a charity or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS however they will not give a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek a diagnosis when you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A proper diagnosis will help you manage your symptoms and also prescribe medications. You may also be recommended to a psychiatrist additional treatment. There are many private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration services. These clinics have plenty of experience working with a broad range adults, including women and men, who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are costly, but the wait time for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you'll pay for the initial assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to evaluate it. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You may also be required to complete questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time and titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. However the process of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received the diagnosis of ADHD, which was later withdrawn. This is a problem because it can be extremely distressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and read more some of them have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP recommends an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the options for treatment and medications if needed.
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 that you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring an adult person or relative along to provide collateral information. The assessment will usually take a few sessions to reach a diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his doctor insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the report was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medication when they adhere to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS. This is the only way they can transfer the patient's care to the NHS after a private diagnoses. 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 their patients to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment, ask them to refer you. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health service or by using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It not only helps individuals better understand themselves and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better assist them. In addition, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. It is not always simple to determine an accurate diagnosis. In the UK patients have to wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for an appointment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. It will help you be able to save time and avoid a trip to your GP. It is a long process that can take several months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than those offered by the NHS. It is important to ensure that the person performing your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to assess ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your struggles at school, at work or in relationships. They will also discuss any other signs you may have which could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send a comprehensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They will also recommend medications if they are needed. They will also help you get other types of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. They will also assist you in applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a university student.
It is not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer fast appointments but with lack of clinical expertise. These shortcuts are to be avoided. However, those suffering from ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis if they can afford it.