ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other conditions like depression or thyroid problems. They may also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD expert. This applies to GP's and consultants as well.
Waiting times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to consult psychiatrists. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder that has an impact on the daily lives of people. In certain areas, waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is being worsened by the growing awareness of the condition and a rise in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a lot of patients are choosing to seek treatment through private healthcare providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to select private health providers.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. It has seen an explosion in the number of adults seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Those who choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness, which can often accompany ADHD.
Many people are worried about the quality of private assessments and the possibility for them to misdiagnose the condition. The issue was brought to the public's attention after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have even accused the programme of stoking stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD.
The BBC should be commended however, for exposing the issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some are forced to seek help privately. The NHS must find a way to address this issue. In the meantime, if you think you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try the free test offered by a charity or request an assessment from an individual psychiatrist. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but do not include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is essential to seek a diagnosis when you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could be advised to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics are usually very experienced with the wide range of adults with ADHD, including men and women. They are also able to look for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are costly however, waiting time for NHS services are much longer. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment and then have follow-up appointments if needed. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who have been trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will usually include clinical interviews and rating scales. You might be asked to fill out questionnaires and referred for additional tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and it can be less expensive. adhd assessment private cost of titration can take longer and requires more appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following 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 highlighted a number of cases in which patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later removed. This is a problem since it can be extremely distressing for people to be incorrectly diagnosed, and some patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland the Scottish government, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. The majority of health insurance companies offer these tests however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have covers them.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. These include anxiety and depression. The doctor will go over with you the treatment options that are available, including medication if required.
During the assessment, you will be asked about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring an experienced family member or friend along to provide any additional information. The test will typically require a few sessions to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics will offer a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his doctor said he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients to further examination or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the patient's care to the NHS after a private diagnoses. This is because they feel that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. More hints are not the only ones who do not prescribe medication to their patients, which may make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't referred you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. You can find out the estimated wait time by contacting your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service that will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Being diagnosed with an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It aids people in understanding their own behavior and that of their family and friends. It also assists them to identify the right treatment strategy. However, getting a diagnosis is not always easy. In the UK people must wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many who are looking to be diagnosed as having ADHD.
If you are unable to wait, it's possible to self-refer for an appointment with an experienced specialist psychiatrist. You will be able to save time and avoid a visit to your GP. This is a lengthy procedure that can take several months. However, it will give you more precise diagnoses than those offered by the NHS. It is important to make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, because they are the sole healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private evaluation will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions regarding your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at work, in school or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other symptoms that could be indicative of ADHD.
The result will be an extensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. If you are a student, they will assist you with applying for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it is not ideal to cut corners but the reality is that NHS services are crowded and underfunded. This means that there are some who try to cut the line by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments with little or any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided, but there is no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnosis appointment when they can afford it.