ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a pretty thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and will rule out other conditions like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school reports and other supporting evidence.
It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This applies to GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that can have an enormous impact on people's daily lives. In some 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 made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition as well as the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose 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 is currently exceeding its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and will be 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.
However, many people are still concerned about the assessment of private patients and the potential for them to over-diagnose the condition. The issue came to the public's attention when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about people suffering from ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, however, for exposing this problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require assistance are forced to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you think you might be suffering from ADHD You can try an assessment for free with a charity, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. They are generally less expensive than the NHS however they don't include a prescription.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek a diagnosis when you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and adjustment. These clinics are usually very adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD as well as men and women. They also can screen for co-morbidities like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, waiting time for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you will pay for an initial assessment and then have follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are qualified to evaluate it. Initial appointments usually involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You may also be asked to complete questionnaires, and you might be referred for further tests such as an read more MRI or EEG.
It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and titration fees. Certain private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. Titration process takes longer and requires 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 exposed a variety of cases where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a problem since it can be extremely depressing for patients to have their symptoms incorrectly identified, and 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 the titration. Most health insurance plans will cover these tests however it is worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if the policy you have covers them.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP recommends an expert clinic, the physician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will assess whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also check for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that might be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment, including medication if necessary.
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 ask about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview. You should bring an adult family member or friend along to provide additional information. The examination will typically take a few sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete examination, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of an Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics, but his GP insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many GPs refuse to sign an agreement to share treatment with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. 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 lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service which will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It can help people understand themselves as well as their family and friends. In addition, it could aid them in determining a suitable treatment plan. It's not always easy to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Especially in the UK, where people have to wait for a long time for an assessment from the NHS. This can be a problem for many people who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. You will reduce time and avoid having to go to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take a few months. However, it will give you a more accurate diagnoses than those offered by the NHS. It is important to ensure that the person conducting your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private evaluation could involve a clinical interview conducted by psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood experiences and other factors. The doctor will also use rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that might be indicative of ADHD.
This will result in an extensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your permission. They will also recommend medication if needed. They can also assist you to get other types of support, including tutoring and support for your study skills. They can also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a university student.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. As a result, there are those who attempt to reduce costs through online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments, but offer no clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek a diagnosis if they can afford it.