ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically a fairly thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment, and also rule out other medical conditions such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also request older school reports or other evidence.
It is essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well.
Waiting several times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognized as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has significant impacts on people's lives. The situation is even worse in some regions, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is being worsened by the growing awareness of the condition, as well as an increase in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling to keep pace with the demand, and a large number of patients are opting to seek treatment through private providers. This has been facilitated by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The number of adults who want an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently surpassing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that can be a result of ADHD.
However, many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the risk of them over-diagnosing the disease. The issue came to the public's attention after an 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 with ADHD.
However the BBC should be praised for exposing this issue and highlighting the dire situation of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who need this assistance are being forced to seek it out privately and the NHS must come up with ways to address the issue. If you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD Consider a no-cost screening with a charity or pay for a private psychiatrist to evaluate you. These are usually cheaper than the NHS however they don't include a prescription.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will assist you in managing your symptoms and prescribe medication. You could be referred to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have lots of experience working with a broad range adults, including men and women, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also screen for co-morbidities like depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however, wait time for NHS services are significantly longer. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if necessary. These appointments are covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be handled in a professional way by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You could be asked to fill out questionnaires and be referred to for further tests, for example, an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost includes both assessment time as well as titration fees. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration apart from diagnosis and can be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a variety of cases where patients were diagnosed of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a serious problem since it can be extremely distressing for patients to have their symptoms misdiagnosed and prescribed medication with adverse side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurers will cover these tests however it is worth checking with your insurer to determine if the policy you have will cover it.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP suggests a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform a clinical evaluation. They will assess whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also look for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The doctor will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if needed.
During the test, you will be asked questions about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications you're taking. They will then conduct a formal interview, and you should bring an adult person or relative along to provide any additional information. It typically takes a few sessions for the assessment to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive examination, while others only test for specific symptoms.
The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he did not have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign an agreement to share care with the NHS and is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the NHS after a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications for their patients, which may make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need.
If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to do so. You can determine your estimated waiting time either by calling the local mental health services or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It not only helps people understand themselves better, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better help them. It can also help them identify the right treatment plan. It is not always simple to determine an assessment. In the UK patients have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it is possible to request an assessment in private with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. You will save time and avoid having to go to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take months however, it will give you a more accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person who conducts the test is a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private evaluation will likely consist of a medical interview with a psychiatrist, including questions regarding your mental health and childhood history. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current struggles at work, in school, or in relationships. They will also discuss any other symptoms you experience that might indicate the presence of ADHD.
This will produce a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your permission. They will also offer medication if appropriate. They can also help you in read more obtaining other types of help, like study skills and mentoring. If you are a student, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
It's not ideal to cut corners however the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with little or no expert clinical knowledge. These methods are not recommended, but there is no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.