How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric evaluation is required to diagnose ADHD. This will be done by a psychiatrist, or an expert ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy procedure, since the old school records might need to be submitted. However, you can bypass the waiting and get private assessments by registering directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process involves a structured clinical interview with an expert and they will look at your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also determine if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that may cause your symptoms. They will focus on different areas of functioning, such as relationships or work. They will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect your life.
It is worth bearing in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight up and down one. A lot of people who are told that they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity that is common in children. It can be present as the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Inattention may also manifest as an inability to concentrate on tasks, organising or sitting still.
If you think that medication could help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will permit you to access reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to accomplish this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, or if they are unable to provide you with an immediate appointment, you may want to change your GP. You might want to think about changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more information on how to make your decision.
You may be able to make an appointment with a private psychiatrist, either through the NHS or independently. Some providers may not require a letter of referral from your GP however, the majority will. Make sure to check with your preferred provider prior to booking.
How can I obtain an assessment in private?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects the function of brain processes like motivation, working memory and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can create difficulties in a variety of areas. A private ADHD assessment can help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and can be useful in identifying how they could be managed.
There are many providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can assert your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to a provider, you may want to find another GP willing to do it.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). This is because they are the only people who can diagnose ADHD. In most cases an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a consultation with a doctor, either in-person or via video conference. The typical time is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked about your current difficulties as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the traits associated with ADHD like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. You will be asked to provide examples of when you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and recommend treatments.
If you're struggling with a chronic illness and do not want to wait for an appointment from the NHS getting a private assessment may be recommended. It is important to know that an assessment conducted privately does not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You will still need to discuss this with them, and if you do decide to try medications it is recommended you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider for an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of the providers here. Some of these companies offer online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a procedure called "Right to Choice" where you can ask your GP for a referral to one of the specialist providers on their list - this will reduce the time to wait substantially. Private providers can also offer a quick diagnosis.
In general, it's recommended to seek out an expert psychiatrist with experience of adult ADHD. It could take a while to locate one, since they can be difficult to come by. Some clinics insist on the GP referral before they will schedule an appointment. However, this is not always the case.
Psychologists are able to evaluate the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. private adhd assessment uk , such as Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However they cannot give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for support services such as Disabled Students' allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist will be able to recognize and explain your symptoms, assess whether they are consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you might have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist, so they can offer you the best treatment possible.
You'll have to pay for the assessment however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll have to pay the NHS prescription cost). We suggest speaking to your GP regarding an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you're doing and to give their approval should it be required.
Joining a support group is another option to get together with other adults who suffer from ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring, and inspiring. You can find online spaces via Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are handing out inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were not thorough and did not consider all the signs or consequences of ADHD on the lives of individuals. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and must pay out of pocket to receive an assessment or prescription.
There is no doubt that your physician will refer you to one of the leading private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) however, they will tell you that there is a waiting period. This differs from provider to provider and is usually around six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research on the provider. If how much is a private adhd assessment choose a well-established and reputable business, you'll probably have an easier time waiting than if you see your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will, in a way determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If they are required they will request additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This is a stressful process, especially for those with complex family situations or who are unable to locate their school records from childhood.
Once you've been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. But, be aware that a majority of GPs will not sign a document known as an agreement for shared care in the event that you were diagnosed privately and haven't had a complete titration into your final dose of medication. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.