ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically a pretty thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other conditions like depression or thyroid problems. They may also ask for old school reports or other evidence.
It is crucial that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to consult a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and has profound effects on people's lives. In certain areas, waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is made worse by the growing awareness of this condition as well as the increasing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private health care from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS across the country. The number of adults requesting an assessment has increased dramatically, and is currently exceeding its capacity. Those who choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose a disease. The issue came to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have accused the program of spreading stigma and stereotyping about those with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the plight of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some people who require this help are being forced to seek it out privately, and the NHS must come up with ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you suspect you may have ADHD You can try an assessment for free with a charity, or pay for an assessment from a private psychiatrist. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but they do not come with prescriptions.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to get a diagnosis. A correct diagnosis will aid in managing your symptoms and also prescribe medication. You could be advised to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics are generally familiar with the vast range of adults with ADHD which includes men and women. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically much quicker than NHS waiting times. You will typically pay for the initial assessment, and then schedule follow-up appointments if necessary. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will typically include clinical interviews and rating scales. private adhd assessment may be asked to fill out questionnaires and referred for additional tests, for example, an MRI.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and are less expensive. Titration process takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a serious problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to be wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment as well as the adjustment. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments however it is worth checking with your insurer to see if your policy will cover it.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP recommends you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and carry out 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 may be present. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. 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 and current issues at home and work. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring an adult or a relative to assist you with the information. It usually takes a few visits for the assessment to arrive at the diagnosis. Some clinics will provide a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - while 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 refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication under strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS, which is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the service following the patient has received a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to refer you. You can find out the estimated waiting time by contacting the local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. Not only does it help people understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better help them. Additionally, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. However, getting an assessment isn't always straightforward. In the UK, people have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for those seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it is possible to request an assessment in private by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. This will save you time and a trip to your GP. This is not a quick procedure and could take months, but it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person conducting the test is a psychiatrist or psychologist, as these are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to assess ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment may include a clinical interview conducted by a psychiatrist. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current challenges at work, in school or in relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. They will also recommend medications if they are needed. They can also assist you to get other types of assistance, like mentoring and study skills support. If you're a student, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
It is not ideal to cut corners however the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. This means that there are people who try to reduce costs by using online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments but with any clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, however there is no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.