ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually a fairly thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They can also request old school records and other supporting evidence.
It is important that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting years to see a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health disorder and that it has significant impact on the lives of people. The situation is worse in certain regions, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose private health providers.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults requesting an assessment has grown exponentially, and is currently exceeding its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and will be 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 concerned about the accuracy of private assessments and the possibility for them to misdiagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics were able to diagnose patients without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about people suffering from ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this problem and highlighting the suffering of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people have to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to address this issue. If you think you may have ADHD Consider a no-cost test with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to assess you. These are typically cheaper than the NHS, but will not issue the prescription for medication.
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 take medications. You could be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Private clinics often offer diagnosis and titration. These clinics are usually very adept with the various types of adults with ADHD as well as women and men. They can also screen for co-morbidities like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive, but the wait 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 if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are certified and have a specific interest in ADHD. The initial appointment will usually consist of clinical interviews and grading scales. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires, and then referred for further tests, like an MRI.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be cheaper. However, the process of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received an assessment of ADHD and then removed. This is a problem since it can be extremely depressing for people to have their symptoms incorrectly identified, and some of them were prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 that includes the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance companies cover these assessments, but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP suggests a specialist clinic the clinician will ask questions and perform a clinical evaluation. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that may be present. Most often, these are depression and anxiety. The doctor will then discuss treatment options with you, including medication, if necessary.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked about your family background and current problems 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 understand the information. The test will typically require several sessions to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full examination, while others only look for specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services 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 said that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnosis. This is because they feel that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You can determine the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health service or by using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It not only helps individuals better understand themselves and their needs, 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. However, obtaining a diagnosis is not always straightforward. 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 seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to a specialist psychiatrist for a private evaluation. You will be able to save time and avoid having how much is an adhd assessment to go to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person performing your test is a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment could include an interview with psychiatrists. Questions will be asked about your mental health, your childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will also use ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles with school, at work, and in relationships. They will also discuss any other signs you may have that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will provide to your GP with your permission. If needed, they may prescribe medication. They will also help you find other ways of support, including tutoring and support for your study skills. They can also assist you in applying for Disabled Student Allowance if are a student at university.
While it's not the best idea to make shortcuts, the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. As a result, there are those who attempt to cut costs through online assessments and private clinics that offer quick appointments with little or no clinical expertise. These shortcuts are to be avoided. However, people with ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even when they can afford it.