How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric evaluation is required to determine ADHD. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can require some red tape for example, the need for old school records to be supplied. You can avoid the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting in which you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms, as well as how they impact your life. It typically requires two sessions, and is more thorough than an NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The process consists of a structured interview with an expert who will review 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 ask you about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not a straight forward one and many people who are told that they have the condition have a mixed diagnosis. It is essential to keep in mind that the three primary symptoms are inattentiveness, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. In adults, hyperactivity often is not as boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could be characterized by the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, organising or sitting still.
If private adhd assessment london decide that medication could be beneficial for your symptoms, you will require a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will permit you to apply for reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to do this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to psychiatrists for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you or if they are unable to provide you with an immediate appointment you might want to change GPs. If this is the case, it may be worth switching GPs and you can learn more about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist via the NHS or privately. A majority of these doctors will require the referral letter of your GP but some don't, so be sure to inquire with the chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I obtain an assessment from a private person?
ADHD is a complicated mental disorder that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can cause difficulties in a variety of areas. A private ADHD assessment can assist you in understanding the impact of these symptoms on your life and can help you determine ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do this you might want to find a different GP willing to assist you.
Typically, an assessment will be performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or other appropriate healthcare professional in accordance with NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only ones who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases the ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a consultation with a doctor either in person or via video call. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked questions about your current difficulties and also your history since childhood. A healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the traits that are associated with ADHD like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of instances where you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and suggest treatment options.
A private evaluation can be helpful if you've been having a difficult time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to know that the results of a private assessment do not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You will have to discuss the issue with them and, if you choose to take medication, you should negotiate a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your doctor in England is willing to send 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 a number of ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choose" where you can ask your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors on their list. This can reduce the waiting time substantially. There are also private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's best to locate a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one as they are not easy to come by. Some clinics will insist on an GP referral before they will make an appointment. However it is not always required.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help you manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you may have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist, so they can give you the best possible treatment.
You'll have to pay for the assessment. If you're diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking to your GP regarding a private diagnosis before booking an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you are doing and give their consent if necessary.
Participating in a support group is another option to get together with other adults with ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be very helpful, comforting and motivating. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are giving out inaccurate 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 the assessments were not thorough and didn't take into account the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that patients who are not qualified for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is no doubt that your GP will refer you to one of the major private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory), but they will tell you that there will be a possible waiting time. The waiting period is different from one company to another, but is typically six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct thorough research about the provider. Choosing an experienced and well-established business will most likely mean you'll have less wait time than if you use your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will determine, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will try to rule out other causes, such as thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues and will usually ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms regarding your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This could be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complex family circumstances or those who aren't able to find their childhood school reports.
After you have been evaluated and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. But, be aware that a majority of GPs will refuse to sign a document referred to as a shared care agreement when you've been diagnosed privately and have not been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.