ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other medical conditions, such as thyroid issues or depression. They can also request old school records and other evidence to support your claim.
It is important that the person performing your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting several times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that can have a significant impact on the lives of people. In some regions, waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is being worsened by the growing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to meet the demand and many patients decide to take care of themselves through private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private healthcare providers.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS across the country. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of adults seeking an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety, which can often be present with ADHD.
Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to misdiagnose the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following the proper process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, however, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some of those who need assistance are forced to seek it privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the situation. If you suspect that you may have ADHD Consider a no-cost screening with a charity or pay an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess you. They are generally less expensive than the NHS however they don't include a prescription.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek out a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A proper diagnosis will aid in managing your symptoms and take medication. You may also be referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics have lots of experience dealing with a diverse range adults, including men and women, who may be suffering from ADHD. They also look for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive however, wait times for NHS services are much longer. Typically, you will pay for an initial assessment, and then subsequent appointments as required. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, for example, an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments provide titration separate from diagnosis, and this may be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that a patient waited for three years to receive an NHS evaluation, before going to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases in which patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is a problem because it can be extremely depressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed, and some of them were prescribed medication that has adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. The majority of health insurance companies offer these tests but it's important to check with your insurance provider to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform an assessment. They will assess whether your read more symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the diagnostic criteria for the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. These are often depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options, including medication if necessary.
During the test, you will be asked questions about your family background and the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct an organized interview, and you must bring an experienced family member or friend along to provide any additional information. It usually takes a few sessions for the evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he did not have it. The BBC claimed that the report was a case of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further investigation or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many doctors will not sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS and is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the NHS after a private diagnosis. They believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. The GP should also be aware that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for their patients to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment, ask for it. You can determine the estimated waiting time by contacting your local mental health service or using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It can help people understand their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It also helps them find the right treatment plan. However, getting an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK people must wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can be a major issue for many people who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can self-refer to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. It will help you be able to save time and avoid a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time, but it will provide you with a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person conducting your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private assessment is likely to consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions about your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will also use ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles with work, school, and relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that may indicate ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send an extensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If necessary, they'll also prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of help, like study skills and mentoring. If you are students, they will assist you in applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not the best idea to take short cuts, the reality is that NHS services are overloaded and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with lack of medical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis when they can afford it.