ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extensive procedure. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and will rule out other conditions such as depression or thyroid. They may also request old school records or other supporting evidence.
It is important that the person who is conducting your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well.
Waiting at various times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are being left waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognized as a serious mental health disorder and has profound impacts on people's lives. The situation is worse in some regions, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition as well as the increasing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment from private providers. 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 various parts of the country. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Those who choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since 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 that can be a result of ADHD.
Many people are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the disease. The issue came to the public's attention when an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were granting diagnoses without due process. Some have even claimed that the program is promoting stigma and stereotyping against people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who need this help are being forced to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the issue. If you think you might be suffering from ADHD Consider a no-cost screening through a charity or pay a private psychiatrist to assess you. These are usually cheaper than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A proper diagnosis will help you manage your symptoms and prescribe medication. You could also be referred to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics have a lot of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men who may suffer from ADHD. They are also able to screen for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, they are generally significantly faster than NHS waiting times. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then make follow-up appointments if necessary. If you have insurance, your coverage will likely cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are certified to assess the condition. The initial appointment will normally involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you might be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time as well as titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. However, the process of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation revealed a number of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later removed. This is a serious problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to be incorrectly diagnosed and prescribed medication that has adverse consequences.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance companies will cover these tests, but it's worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will assess whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for more info diagnosis of the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The doctor will then discuss 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 inquire about any medications that you are taking. They will then conduct a formal interview. You should bring a trusted friend or relative with you to provide collateral information. It typically takes a few visits for the assessment to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an entire evaluation, while others will only test specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The programme's undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his GP insisted that he was not suffering from the condition. The BBC said that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however GPs are only able to refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS, which is the only way that they can refer their patient's treatment to the NHS following a private diagnosis. This is because they feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD evaluation in the event that they haven't yet. You can determine your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or by using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It can help people understand themselves and also their family and friends. It also helps them identify the right treatment plan. It's not always easy to obtain a diagnosis. Particularly in the UK where patients are waiting for long periods for an assessment from the NHS. This can be a major issue for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you're unable to wait, it's possible to request an appointment by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. This can save you time and also a visit to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months, but it will provide you with a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should make sure that the person who is conducting the assessment is either a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK who are certified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrists. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood history and other factors. The doctor will also use rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles in school, at work, and in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could indicate ADHD.
This will produce a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They will also assist with other forms of support, including studying skills and mentoring. They will also help with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a university student.
It's not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics that offer short appointments and not having any clinical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided, but there is no reason why those suffering from ADHD shouldn't seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.