How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This is performed by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could be a bit complicated like the requirement for old school reports to be supplied. However, you can bypass the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with an expert who will discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically requires two sessions, and is more thorough than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process consists of a structured interview with a expert who will look at your symptoms from childhood until adulthood. They will also examine other issues with your mental health or neurological issues that could be contributing to your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, including relationships or work, and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not a straight straightforward one. Many people who are told that they suffer from the disorder have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often is not as boisterous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or constantly rushing around. In the same way, inattention may manifest as difficulty staying focused and seated or having difficulty in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you decide that medication could be beneficial for your symptoms, you'll need to get an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will permit you to receive reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you to a specialist, or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment within a short time you might want to change your GP. You may want to consider changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more details on how to make a decision.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist, either through the NHS or privately. The majority of these providers require a referral letter from your GP but some don't and you should check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How can I get an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can create difficulties in a variety of areas. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact that these symptoms can affect your life, and determine how you can manage the symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment for 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 do so, it may be worthwhile to find another GP who will.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). This is due to them being the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a medical interview in person or via video calls. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked about your current difficulties and also your history since childhood. The healthcare professional will then consider whether you have any of the characteristics associated with ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide instances of when you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and recommend treatments.
If you're suffering from an ongoing condition and do not want to wait for an appointment with the NHS seeking an assessment from a private practitioner is beneficial. It is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. It is still necessary to discuss this with them, and if you decide to test medication, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers if your doctor in England will refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS provides a "Right to Choose" process that allows you to request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This can drastically reduce the time it takes to wait. There are also private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
It is best to seek out a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. It might take a while to locate one, since they are hard to find. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter before they will see you for an examination however this is not always required.
Psychiatrists can offer an assessment of your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help manage symptoms. However they cannot 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 experienced will be able identify and explain your symptoms. They will also evaluate whether your symptoms are consistent ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be capable of providing you with the best treatment if you are open and honest.
You will need to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it may be possible to receive medication under a shared-care agreement with your physician. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking about paying for a private diagnosis, we'd suggest you talk to your GP prior to booking an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and can provide their consent in the event of need.
Joining a support group is another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, comforting and encouraging. You can find online communities on Facebook and Reddit or look up local in person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that he didn't have ADHD. The report claimed that the assessments were made in a hurry, and did not take into consideration 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 must pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
There is no doubt that your doctor will recommend one of the largest private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) however, they will tell you that there will be a possible waiting time. This varies from provider to provider and is usually around six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask your family and friends members for suggestions. If you choose a well-established and experienced company, you'll probably have an easier time waiting than if you see your GP.
During the evaluation your psychiatrist will evaluate in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impact on your daily activities. They will ask you to rule out any other causes, like anxiety or depression. If necessary, they will ask for proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This is a stressful process especially for those who have complex family situations or who cannot find their school records from their childhood.
Once private adhd assessments have been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional, you'll be eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. Be aware that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract called a shared-care agreement when you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.