ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a pretty thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other illnesses, such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also request old school records and other supporting evidence.
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 consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health disorder and that it has major impacts on people's lives. In certain areas, waiting times can be 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 a rise in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that provides an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The number of adults seeking an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently over the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults and are better equipped to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. private adult adhd assessment are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety which are often associated in ADHD.
However, many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and their potential to over-diagnose the illness. The issue came to the public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have accused the program of inciting stigma and stereotypes against those with ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, however, for exposing the issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to fix this problem. In the meantime, if you think you may have ADHD You can take advantage of an assessment for free with a charity or request an assessment from private psychiatrists. They are usually less expensive than the NHS however they will not give a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is crucial to get a diagnosis. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You may be referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics are generally adept with the various types of adults with ADHD as well as both genders. They also can screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly, but they are usually much quicker than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment and then have follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are qualified to assess the condition. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You will also be required to complete questionnaires and you may be referred to further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and this can be cheaper. The process of titration takes longer and requires appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is problematic because it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and a few patients have been prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it is worth checking to see whether you're covered.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and perform an assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also check for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at work and home. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring an adult family member or friend along to provide collateral information. The assessment will usually take a few sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics will provide an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of an Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his doctor said that he didn't suffer from ADHD. The BBC argued that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS, which is the only way they can refer their patient's treatment to the service after a private diagnosis. This is because they feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medication for their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment, ask for it. You can determine your estimated waiting time by calling the local mental health clinic or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It aids people in understanding themselves as well as their family and friends. It also helps them determine the best treatment plan. It is not always simple to obtain a diagnosis. Particularly in the UK, where people are waiting for long periods for an assessment by the NHS. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it is possible to request a private assessment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. You will reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take a long time but it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You must make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is psychiatrist or psychologist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with psychiatrists. There will be questions regarding your mental health, your childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask about your current struggles with school, at work, and in relationships. They will also discuss any other symptoms you experience that could indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your permission. If needed, they may prescribe medication. They can also assist you in obtaining other types of help, like study skills and mentoring. They can also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if are a student at a university.
It is not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer quick appointments and little or no clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, but there's no reason to think that people suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.