How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD an assessment of psychiatric disorders is required. This is performed by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It can be a long process, as old school records may need to be supplied. You can get rid of the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically requires two sessions, and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The procedure involves a structured interview with a expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also examine other mental health issues or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis isn't always simple. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition suffer from multiple diagnoses. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are three of the main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or a constant rush around. Inattention can also manifest as an inability to concentrate on tasks, being organised or sitting down.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial to your symptoms, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to talk to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
You may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. You might want to think about changing GPs If this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how you can exercise your choice.
You might be able to make an appointment with a private psychiatrist on your own via the NHS or independently. The majority of these providers require a referral letter from your GP but some don't, so check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How do private adhd assessment cost uk get a private assessment?
ADHD is a complicated mental illness that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. It causes problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be challenging to live with. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of the symptoms on your life and could be helpful in determining ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do this, you may want to find another GP willing to do it.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist typically conducts the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only ones who can diagnose ADHD. In most cases, the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or over video call. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current problems as well as your previous struggles in your early years if you are an adult. A healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics that are associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsive nature. You will be asked for examples of times when you showed these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and recommend treatment options.
If you're suffering from a chronic condition and do not want to wait for an appointment from the NHS, obtaining a private assessment may be advisable. However, it is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll still need to discuss the issue with them. If you do decide to try medications it is recommended you seek a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers 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 'Right to Choose" process where you can request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This will significantly cut down on the time it takes to wait. There are private providers who can diagnose quickly.
It is recommended to find a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, since they can be difficult to come by. Some will insist on a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment, but this is not always required.
Psychiatrists can provide an assessment of your symptoms but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to get access to support services such as Disabled Students' Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A Psychiatrist who is experienced is able to determine and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are consistent ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the best treatment if your honest and open.
You'll have to pay for the assessment however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll still have to pay the NHS prescription cost). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we would suggest you talk to your GP prior to scheduling an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
Joining a support group is another option to get together with other adults who suffer from ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, comforting and motivating. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the assertion that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though he didn't have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into consideration all the symptoms or the effects of ADHD on the lives of individuals. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
It is true that GPs may recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) but they usually inform you that there is likely to be a waiting time. This differs from provider to provider and is usually around six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for word of mouth recommendations. Picking a reputable, experienced company will probably mean you will experience a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the examination, your psychiatrist will assess, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant disruption in your daily functioning. They will want to rule out other reasons, like thyroid, anxiety, depression or problems and will typically request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms regarding your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This can be a stressful process particularly for those with more complicated family circumstances or those who have not been in a position to locate their school reports from their childhood.
Once you've been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are able to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. Be aware that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract known as a shared-care agreement when you were diagnosed privately and you haven't been titrated fully to the final dose of medication. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.