Watch Out: How Private ADHD Diagnosis Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
How to Get a Private ADHD DiagnosisIf you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This will be done by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could be a bit complicated like the requirement for old school reports to be submitted. However, you can bypass the waiting and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment of ADHD is a consultation where you sit down with an expert to discuss your symptoms as well as how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process involves an organized clinical interview with an expert and they will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also look into whether there are any other mental health conditions or neurological issues that may cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis is not always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition suffer from an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity that is seen in children. It could be manifested as a sense of restlessness or constantly rushing around. Similarly, inattentiveness can be a sign of difficulty sitting still and being organised or having difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you believe that medication can aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will permit you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. The best method to do this is to speak with your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
You might find your GP doesn't want to refer you to a specialist or give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile to switch GPs You can find out more about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry UK website.
You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider via the NHS system or privately. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Make sure to check with your preferred provider prior to making a booking.
How can I get an assessment in private?
ADHD is a nexus of mental condition that affects brain processes like motivation, working memory and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can lead to issues in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and could be useful in identifying how they could be managed.
There are many providers who can 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 refer you to one it could be worth finding another GP who will.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist typically conducts the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases, the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or over video calls. The typical time for this assessment is 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current health issues and any previous issues you have had from childhood if you're an adult. The healthcare professional will then consider whether you have any of the characteristics that are associated with ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide instances of when you've shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for an appointment from the NHS, obtaining a private assessment may be recommended. However, it is important to keep in mind that the private diagnosis does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll still need to discuss the issue with them. If you decide to test medication it is recommended you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers in case your GP in England will recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a "Right to choose" process where you can ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This will significantly cut down on waiting times. There are private providers who can offer a diagnosis quickly.
It is advisable to seek out an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one since they aren't easily accessible. Some clinics require an GP referral before they schedule an appointment. However it is not always the case.
Psychiatrists are able to provide an assessment of your symptoms but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However, they are unable to give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for assistance such as the Disabled Student's allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert can identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they are consistent with ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist is capable of providing you with the best treatment if your honest and open.
You'll have to pay for the examination however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to be responsible for private adhd assessment the NHS prescription charge). We recommend that you speak to 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 an online support group to meet other adults who have ADHD and share their stories and suggestions. They can be incredibly helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over assertion that private clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though he didn't have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and didn't take into account the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD has on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns about patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and have to pay out-of-pocket to get an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that GPs will often recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they usually inform you that there will likely be a waiting time. This varies from provider to provider and typically is approximately six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct thorough research on the provider. If you select a reputable and experienced company you'll likely experience an easier time waiting than if you visit your GP.
In the course of the evaluation an evaluator will, in a way, assess whether your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out any other reasons, like anxiety, depression, or thyroid issues and will usually request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school records if necessary. This can be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or for those who have not been able to find their childhood school reports.
After you have been evaluated and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. Be aware that the majority of GPs aren't likely to sign a contract called a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed privately and you haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors do not have the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.