ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally a fairly comprehensive process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment, and also rule out other conditions like thyroid issues or depression. They may also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is essential that the person carrying out your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to visit psychiatrists. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that can have an enormous impact on people's daily lives. The situation is worse in certain areas, with waiting times as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the growing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand and many patients choose to take care of themselves through private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private healthcare from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has exploded and is currently over the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults, and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression that are frequently present with ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the accuracy of private assessments and the possibility for them to overdiagnose a disease. The issue was brought to the attention of the public when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have claimed that the program is promoting stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, however, for exposing this issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to fix this problem. If you suspect that you may have ADHD, try a free screening with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to assess your. These are typically less expensive than the NHS however they don't include a prescription.
Second opinion
If you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD It is essential to receive a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis will aid in managing your symptoms and also prescribe medications. You may be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are a variety of private clinics offering diagnosis and titration services. These clinics have lots of experience working with a broad range of adults, both men and women, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. Typically, you'll pay for an initial assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires and you could be referred to additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
It is possible 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 cost of titration. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and are cheaper. Titration process takes longer and requires more appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited three years for an NHS assessment before he went to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances where patients were given the diagnosis of ADHD and then withdrawn. This is a problem since it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed, and a few of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worthwhile to verify whether you're covered.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP suggests you visit a specialist clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and perform a clinical assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosing. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that might be present. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss 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 home and work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring your family member or friend to assist you through the process. The examination will typically require several sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics offer a complete assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the report was a case of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only permitted to refer patients for further examination or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for their patients to get the treatment they require.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment if they haven't already. You can find out the estimated waiting time by contacting the local mental health services, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It helps people better understand themselves and also their family and friends. It also helps them determine the best treatment plan. However, getting an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can self-refer to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. It will help you be able to save time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy process that could take months. However it will provide you with an accurate diagnosis than the ones provided by the NHS. You must ensure that the person conducting the assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions regarding your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at work, in school or in relationships. They will also talk about any other symptoms you experience that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be an extensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. They will also offer medication if needed. They can also assist you to find other ways of support, including mentoring and study skills support. They can also assist you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university.
While it's not ideal to cut corners, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. In the end, there are some who try to cut costs by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments with little or any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, however there's no website reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment if they are able to afford it.