How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric evaluation is required to determine ADHD. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can require some red tape for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. But, you can avoid the wait and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you meet with an expert to discuss your symptoms as well as how they impact your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process involves a structured interview with a expert who will look at your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also consider other issues with your mental health or neurological issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can be characterized by an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention can also manifest as an inability to concentrate on tasks, organising or sitting for long periods of time.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial to your condition, you will require a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment.
You might find your GP doesn't want to refer you to a specialist or give you an appointment in a timely manner. 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 directly, either through the NHS or privately. A majority of these doctors will require an appointment letter from your GP but some don't and you should make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to booking.
How can I obtain an assessment in private?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain functions like motivation as well as working memory and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can create difficulties in a variety of areas. A private ADHD assessment will assist you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and can be helpful in determining the best ways to treat them.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can assert your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to make this request you might want to find a different GP willing to help.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a clinical interview, either in person or via video calls. This will usually last for 45 to 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current problems as well as your previous struggles from childhood if you're an adult. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the traits that are associated with ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. You will be asked to give examples of when you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
If you're struggling with a chronic condition and aren't willing to wait for an appointment with the NHS, obtaining an assessment privately is advisable. It is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll need to discuss it with them and, if you choose to take medication, you must consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choose" where you can ask your doctor for a referral to any of the specialist providers on their list - this can reduce the waiting time significantly. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
It is advisable to find an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. It could take a while to locate one, since they are hard to come by. Some clinics will insist on the GP referral before they make an appointment. However it is not always the case.
Psychiatrists are able to assess your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD that is required to access assistance services like Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments at work.
A Psychiatrist with expertise will be able determine and explain your symptoms. They will also evaluate whether they are consistent ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is in a position to give you the best treatment if your honest and forthcoming.
You'll have to pay for the assessment, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll be required to be responsible for the NHS prescription fee). We suggest that you talk with your GP regarding the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you are doing and give their consent should it be required.
It's also worth considering joining a support group to meet other adults who have ADHD, and hear their experiences and solutions. They can be extremely supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
The recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics offer a false diagnosis. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment providers 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 rushed, and did not consider the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for an assessment or prescription.
It is true that GPs will often recommend an ADHD assessment through one of the major private companies (such as Priory) but they usually private adhd assessment inform you that there will likely be a waiting time. This differs from provider to provider, but is typically around six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask friends and family members for recommendations. suggestions. Picking a reputable, experienced firm will likely mean that you will experience a shorter wait than if you go through your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will, somewhat subjectively examine whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will want to rule out any other reasons, like thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues and will usually require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms about your childhood) and school reports, if required. This can be a stressful time particularly for those with complicated family circumstances or who can't locate their school records from their childhood.
Once you've been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be able to apply for disability support at your local authority. But, be aware that the majority of GPs will refuse to sign a document referred to as an agreement for shared care in the event that you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.