ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD assessment is generally an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other conditions such as thyroid or depression. They may also ask for old school reports or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is essential that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has major effects on people's lives. The situation is even worse in some areas, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of the condition and the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment from private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private health providers.
One of these services 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, and is currently exceeding its capacity. People who opt to take the private route are typically much better served, as private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness that can be a result of ADHD.
Many people are worried about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose the disease. The issue came to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have accused the program of propagating stigma and stereotypes about people suffering from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame some people have to seek help privately. The NHS should come up with a solution to remedy this situation. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD You can take advantage of the free test offered by a charity, or take advantage of an assessment by a private psychiatrist. They're typically less expensive than the NHS, but will not issue a prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A proper diagnosis will aid in managing your symptoms and prescribe medication. You may be referred to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics are generally experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD which includes women and men. They can also test for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but they are usually much quicker than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for a first assessment, and then subsequent appointments as required. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments are conducted by trained nurses with a particular interest in ADHD and are qualified to assess the condition. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, such as an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and are cheaper. However, adhd private assessment of titration takes longer and requires a number of appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS evaluation, before going to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a number cases where patients received the diagnosis of ADHD and then withdrawn. This is a serious issue since it can be very distressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse consequences.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the titration. Most health insurance plans cover these assessments however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have does.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP recommends an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and conduct an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they match the diagnostic criteria. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options that are available, including medication if required.
During the examination during the assessment, you will be asked questions about your family background and the current issues you face at home and at work. They will also ask about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct an organized interview, and you should bring an adult person or relative along to provide collateral information. The assessment will usually take a few sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics will provide an entire evaluation, while others will only test specific symptoms.
Panorama's investigation into the inadequate provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought it to the fore. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP said he didn't have it. The BBC argued that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosing" by private firms, however doctors can only refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared treatment with the NHS. This is the only way they can transfer the care of their patients to the NHS after a private diagnoses. They feel they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medications to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to get the treatment they require.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask for it. You can determine your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose site. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service which will be offered by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them and their family and friends better assist them. In addition, it can help them find a good treatment strategy. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. Especially in the UK where patients are facing long waiting times for an assessment by the NHS. This can be a major issue for many people who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you're unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an appointment with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This can save you time and also a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take a few months. However it will provide you with a more accurate diagnoses that those offered by the NHS. It is crucial to make sure that the person who conducts your assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist since they are the only healthcare professionals who are competent to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment could include a clinical interview conducted by psychiatrist. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood experiences and other factors. The doctor will use rating scales to ask about your struggles at work, at school or in relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that might be indicative of ADHD.
This will result in an extensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. They may also prescribe medication if appropriate. They will also help you get other types of assistance, like mentorship and support for studying skills. They will also help you in submitting for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a university student.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. As a result, there are some who try to cut the line by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments with little or no clinical expertise. These methods are not recommended, but there's no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.
