How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This is performed by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a procedure that may be a bit complicated for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. But, you can avoid the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting in which you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms as well as how they impact your life. It typically takes two sessions, and is more thorough than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process will involve an organized clinical interview with an expert, and they will examine your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also examine other issues with your mental health or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will focus on different areas of functioning, including relationships or work, and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis is not always easy. Many people who are diagnosed with the disorder have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often is not as boisterous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It could be present as an inability to settle or a constant rushing. In the same way, inattention may manifest as a problem sitting still and being organised, or difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial for your condition, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to speak to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
private adhd assessment cost may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. You may want to consider changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more information on how to exercise your choice.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist through the NHS or privately. A majority of these doctors will require the referral letter of your GP but some don't and you should make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
How can I obtain an assessment in private?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes like motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. It can cause problems in a variety of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact these symptoms have on your life and identify how to manage these symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do this, you may want to find another GP willing to assist you.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview, either in-person or via video chat. This will usually last for 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked regarding your current problems and your background from childhood. The healthcare professional will then examine whether you exhibit any of the characteristics that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked for examples of when you have displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will utilize this information to determine the cause and suggest treatments.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for a referral from the NHS seeking an assessment from a private practitioner is recommended. It is important to remember that the results of a private assessment do not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You will still need to discuss this with them, and if you decide to try medications, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England will recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a procedure called 'Right to Choose' where you can ask your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors that are on their list. This can reduce the waiting time substantially. Private providers can also provide rapid diagnosis.
In general, it is best to find a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it could take a while to find one as they are not easy to come by. Some clinics will insist on an GP referral before they will make an appointment. However it is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists can help you manage your symptoms, but they are unable to give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to access assistance services like Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert will be able to identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and look into any other mental health issues you might have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist so they can provide you with the most effective treatment.
You'll have to pay for the exam, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor (you'll still have to pay the NHS prescription charge). If you're considering paying for a private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP prior to booking an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and can provide their consent in the event of need.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to meet others who suffer from ADHD, and hear their experiences and solutions. They can be very supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics offer a false diagnosis. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that the patient did not have ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were made in a hurry, and did not take into consideration the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket to receive an assessment or prescription.
There is no doubt that your physician will refer you to one of the largest private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will inform you that there could be a waiting time. The waiting time differs from one provider to the next and is usually six weeks. It is advisable to research the provider carefully and ask your family and friends members for word of mouth recommendations. If you choose a well-established and reputable company you'll likely experience less wait time than if you see your GP.
In the course of the evaluation the psychiatrist will, somewhat subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out other reasons, like thyroid, anxiety, depression or problems and will typically ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This could be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complex family circumstances or those who have not been in a position to locate their childhood school reports.
Once you've been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional you will be eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. However, you should be aware that most GPs are not willing to sign a document known as a shared care agreement when you've been diagnosed privately and haven't also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that doctors lack the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medications.