How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric assessment is required to determine ADHD. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a procedure that may be a bit complicated like the requirement for old school reports to be submitted. You can avoid the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a consultation where you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically requires two sessions and is much more comprehensive than an NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The procedure involves a structured interview with a expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also consider if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that may cause your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis is not always easy. Many people diagnosed with the condition have multiple diagnoses. It is essential to keep in mind that the three main symptoms are inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant rush around. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, organising or sitting for long periods of time.
If you decide that medication might be beneficial for your condition, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will allow you to receive reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. This can be accomplished by asking your GP to recommend you to a psychiatric assessment.
You might find your GP does not want to refer you or can't give you an appointment in a timely manner. You may want to consider changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more details on how to make a decision.
You might also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner, either through the NHS system or privately. Some providers may not require a letter of referral from your GP but the majority of them will. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How do I obtain an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes such as motivation as well as working memory and attention. It can cause problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to manage. A private ADHD assessment can assist you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your daily life and be helpful in determining ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for 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 is unwilling to refer you to a provider then you may need to find a different GP willing to do it.
The majority of assessments are performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate in accordance with NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a clinical interview in person or over video calls. This will usually last for 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current issues and your past difficulties since childhood if you are an adult. The healthcare expert will determine if have any of the symptoms associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, or the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked for examples of when you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and recommend treatment options.
A private evaluation can be helpful if you have been having a difficult time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to know that the results of a private assessment do not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You'll have to discuss the issue with them, and if you decide to take medication, you must consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your doctor in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a variety of ways to obtain an ADHD evaluation. The NHS offers a "Right to choose" procedure where you can request a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
In general, it is best to locate a specialist psychiatrist with had experience with adult ADHD. It might take a while to locate one, since they can be difficult to find. Some clinics insist on an GP referral before they will make an appointment. However it is not always the case.
Psychiatrists can offer an assessment of your symptoms, but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can help you manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD which is required to get access to support services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments at work.
A specialist Psychiatrist will be able diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also evaluate whether your symptoms are consistent ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues you might have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist, so they can give you the best treatment possible.
You'll have to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication under a shared-care agreement with your doctor. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking to your GP about a private diagnosis before 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 meet other adults who suffer from ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be very helpful, reassuring, and inspiring. You can find online communities on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local in person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though he didn't have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into account all the symptoms or impact of ADHD on the lives of people. It also raised concerns private adhd assessment that patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is a fact that doctors will often suggest you to have an ADHD evaluation with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting differs from one provider to another, but is typically six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and then do a thorough research about the provider. Selecting a reputable and experienced firm will likely mean that you'll have a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the examination the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant impact on your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, like anxiety or depression. If they are required they will seek proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful process particularly for those with more complicated family situations or for those who aren't successful in finding their school reports from their childhood.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional, you can apply for disability benefits through your local authority. You should be aware, however, that most GPs won't sign a document called a shared-care agreement when you were diagnosed privately and haven't been titrated fully to your final dose of medicine. This is due to the fact that GPs do not have the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.