ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records or other evidence to back up their claims.
It is essential that the person assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnosis are left waiting years to visit psychiatrists for years. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder that can have an impact on people's daily lives. In some areas waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent action to help improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a large number of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private healthcare providers. This has been made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private healthcare from any provider.
One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults seeking an assessment has exploded and is currently over the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety that are frequently present in ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to overdiagnose a illness. The issue was brought to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the way in which some private clinics were granting diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have accused the program of perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of those with ADHD.
However the BBC should be commended for exposing this issue and highlighting the plight of adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who need assistance are required to seek it privately and the NHS should come up with ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD You can try a free screening with a charity or take advantage of an assessment by an individual psychiatrist. These are typically cheaper than the NHS however they will not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is important to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be advised to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics provide diagnosis and adjustment. These clinics have lots of experience dealing with a diverse range adults, including women and men who may suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they are typically significantly faster than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments as needed. If you have insurance that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments usually involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you may be referred for additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 to here PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both the assessment time and the cost of titration. Some private ADHD assessments allow titration apart from diagnosis, and this may be cheaper. However the process of titration can be longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later taken off. This is a serious issue since it can be extremely distressing for patients to be wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse consequences.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as titration. The majority of health insurance companies will cover these tests but it's important to check with your insurance provider to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP refers you to a specialist clinic, the specialist will ask you questions and perform an assessment. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD, and if they match the criteria for diagnosing. They will also look for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. Most often, these are anxiety and depression. The doctor will discuss with you the treatment options, including medication if necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will inquire you about your family history and current issues at home and at work. They will also ask you about any medications that you are taking. The interview will be planned and you can bring your family member or friend to assist you with the information. It usually takes a few visits to determine the diagnosis. Some clinics will provide an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only test specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought the issue to the fore. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP said he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but doctors can only refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS as it is the only way they can refer their patient's treatment to the service after the patient has received a private diagnosis. They feel they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medications, which could make it difficult for patients to get the care they require.
If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment, ask for it. You can find out your estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site lets you select an online ADHD assessment service which is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. Not only does it help individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them and their family and friends better help them. Additionally, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis isn't always easy. In the UK, people have to wait for a long time to receive an NHS assessment. This can cause anxiety for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you cannot wait, you can self-refer to an expert psychiatrist for a private evaluation. You'll reduce time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy process that can take a few months. However it will provide you with more precise diagnoses than those offered by the NHS. You must ensure that the person performing the assessment is either a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to determine ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions regarding your mental health and childhood experiences. The doctor will also use rating scales and ask questions about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. The doctor will also address other signs that may be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP with your consent. If necessary, they'll also prescribe medication. They can also help you in obtaining other types of assistance, such as tutoring and study skills. If you are a student, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people attempt to save money by using online assessments or private clinics that offer fast appointments but with little or no expert clinical knowledge. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.