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ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally a fairly comprehensive process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. They might also request old school reports or other supporting evidence.
It is vital that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is the case for psychiatrists and GPs alike.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognized as a serious mental health disorder and that it has major impacts on people's lives. In some areas, waiting times can last 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 this condition as well as the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand, and many patients opt to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults seeking an assessment has exploded and is currently over its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are generally much better served, as private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following the proper process. Some have even accused the program of inciting stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
However the BBC deserves praise for exposing this problem and highlighting the dire situation of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who need this assistance are being forced to seek it out privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the situation. If you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD, try a free test with a charity or pay for a private psychiatrist to assess you. They are usually less expensive than the NHS however they will not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to receive a diagnosis. A clear diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and adjustment. These clinics have plenty of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men, who may be suffering from ADHD. They also can screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however the waiting times for NHS services are more lengthy. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment, and then follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews and rating systems. You may also be asked to complete questionnaires and you could be referred for further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
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. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. However, the process of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances in which patients received a diagnosis of ADHD and then taken off. This is a serious problem since it can be very distressing for patients to be misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse consequences.
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 tests. However, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to an expert clinic, the clinician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if click here they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also search for co-morbidities, or any other mental health issues. They are typically depression and anxiety. The doctor will go over with you the treatment options, 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 you about any medications that you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring your family member or friend to assist you understand the information. The examination will typically take a few sessions to establish a diagnosis. Some clinics offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought it to light. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP said that he didn't suffer from ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however GPs can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication according to 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 feel they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to refer you. You can find out your estimated waiting time either by calling your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better assist them. It also assists them to determine the best treatment plan. It's not always easy to determine an accurate diagnosis. In the UK patients have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be frustrating for many people who are trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you're unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for a private assessment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This can save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take a long time, but it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person who conducts your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment could include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrists. Questions will be asked about your mental health, childhood experiences and other factors. The doctor will also employ rating scales and ask about your current struggles with school, work, and relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience which could be indicative of ADHD.
This will produce an extensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of assistance, such as study skills and mentoring. If you're students, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to make shortcuts, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with short appointments and not having any medical expertise. These shortcuts are to be avoided. However, those with ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even when they can afford it.