ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerul drugs following unreliable video assessments at private clinics as an BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation took place after tips were received. A plethora of patients and whistleblowers contacted.
Many people are required to pay for private assessments because of the NHS waiting list. But is it really effective?
Why do I require an individual diagnostic?
If you or someone you know has ADHD, you should consult a specialist who can accurately assess the condition and prescribe appropriate treatment. While many people may choose to go with the NHS but private diagnosis may be more effective and save you both time and money in the long run.
There are some concerns about the capacity of the NHS to meet the current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients are waiting for months or even weeks for an appointment. This can be very distressing for those who are affected. Additionally, many feel that the quality of NHS assessment services isn't quite as high as it should be.
In light of these challenges it's not a surprise that more adults are choosing to seek an appointment with a private physician. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care offered by some private clinics. The undercover program revealed that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone and telling patients that they were suffering from ADHD when, in reality, they did not.
A private examination will typically begin with a series of screening questions that you are asked to fill out and submit to the clinician. The screenings are designed and standardised to determine if you exhibit symptoms of ADHD. These results aid the clinician decide if you should attend a diagnostic appointment.
The doctor will then review your medical background and family history as well as the effects of ADHD symptoms on your life. They will also carry out a physical examination and cognitive test. You will be diagnosed with ADHD in light of your circumstances and given a treatment plan.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD Your doctor will submit documentation to your GP to request a shared-care agreement. This permits you to continue receiving NHS medications while paying only the NHS prescription fee. You can also consult your private clinician to keep track of appointments and receive CBT therapy, should it be necessary.
What happens if I don't have a diagnosis?
In the case of ADHD an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can make a huge difference. However the NHS method of diagnosing ADHD can be long and frustrating. Many adults can't wait that long and look for private doctors to assess their condition. This can save time and frustration, but it's important to recognize that this isn't a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.
A professional with experience diagnosing ADHD can offer more detailed evaluations than a psychiatrist working for the NHS. This may include a physical examination as well as tests such as hearing and vision. It will also involve checklists and questionnaires. The person who is conducting the test will also ask you about your family medical and social history and your symptoms. They could also employ standard ADHD scales of rating and ask your teachers or caregivers to evaluate you.
When assessing adult ADHD the healthcare professional will look for five or more signs that have been present for at least six months and are severe enough to affect the family or work environment. They will also determine whether these symptoms are due to any other mental health conditions. Depression and anxiety, for example can trigger signs similar to those seen in ADHD. They will also look at your professional and social history to rule out potential issues like financial difficulties, abuse histories, and drinking and drug addiction.
During your NHS assessment during your NHS assessment, you will be informed by a psychiatrist or another healthcare professional if you don't meet the criteria for ADHD. You can request a second assessment if you disagree with their conclusion.
If you have an official diagnosis of ADHD can decide to share this with their GP, and the GP can then refer them to shared management under the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed as ADHD can get medications in this manner. Some GPs are reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication because they don't specialize in the condition or because it's expensive.
What if I disagree with my diagnosis?
Remember that your therapist must be respectful and sympathetic to your concerns and feelings. They'll understand that untreated ADHD symptoms can cause major difficulties for families and individuals. If your physician isn't in agreement with the diagnosis, they may be able to suggest alternative treatment options or diagnoses that might be more suitable for you.
If your physician decides that you do not meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD, they will explain the reason. You may have not provided enough information about your issues or they may think that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with the decision, you can seek another opinion from another clinician or go through the NHS complaints procedure.
If you choose to go private or take advantage of NHS care, the wait time for an assessment can be lengthy and it's important to consider that your doctor might find the process frustrating. The NHS is stretched too thin and this isn't the fault of the people who are involved.
GPs also face challenges in navigating the complex diagnosis process for ADHD as well as autism (and neurodivergence generally). They must ensure they offer a robust safe, fair and secure service and that they meet the GMC's requirements for sharing care prescribing.
Unfortunately, Panorama's expose has revealed that private clinics are using a shortened diagnostic methods and this could put people at risk. This is a national scandal and a valid reason to look at alternatives.
It is also worth noting that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it more difficult for certain people to be given a diagnosis. This is particularly true if the person is a member of a minority group or was a female when they were born. birth or has any other health or social issues that affect the way medical professionals perceive their symptoms.
We can help you if find your life negatively affected by untreated ADHD symptoms. Our doctors have experience diagnosing ADHD and can offer support and treatment for your difficulties. Contact us or request an appointment online to find out what we can do to help.
What happens if I don't want to take medication?
You can receive a diagnosis in case you're worried about ADHD symptoms, but do not wish to take medication. The NHS provides an adult ADHD assessment service. You can request an appointment with your GP to be evaluated at one of the specialist centres in England check here or by the 'Right to Choose option which is faster.
Your appointment will include a validated assessment, a clinical interview, and an online questionnaire. This will enable your doctor to assess how you are affected by these symptoms and the effect they affect your daily routine. The clinician will consider your past experiences and your family history. It is crucial to give accurate and honest answers.
If the doctor decides that you have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, they can provide you with a diagnosis. You will be asked whether you would like to discuss the possibility of taking a medication. Before making a decision it is crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of taking any medication. The effects of medication are long-term, and can have serious side effects when taken improperly.
The psychiatrist will give you an appointment and a treatment plan if you decide to take a medication. Based on the severity of your symptoms, as well as the duration of time you've been suffering from them, it may be recommended that you take ADHD medication for a longer period of time. However, it is also important to remember that there are alternatives to medication to help manage ADHD symptoms, including diet, exercise and cognitive behaviour therapy.
The BBC Panorama 'expose' of private clinics diagnosing ADHD has caused a lot of controversy, particularly because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed due to inadequate assessment of their clinical needs. We're not sure that this doesn't happen because we are inexact, and psychiatry only a flimsy science. However, if you are struggling with ADHD symptoms and you are being frustrated by the NHS wait times, then it is possible to pay for an individual assessment.