How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape like the requirement for old school records to be submitted. However, you can skip the wait and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting in which you meet with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically requires two sessions and is more detailed than a NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The procedure involves an organized clinical interview with a specialist and they will look at your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also determine if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that may cause your symptoms. They will inquire 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 an easy up and down one. A lot of people who are told they have the condition have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. Adult hyperactivity can differ from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can manifest as restlessness or a constant race. In addition, inattention can manifest as difficulty staying still and being organized, or difficulty staying focused and forgetting things easily.
If you believe that medication can aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. 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 is unwilling to refer you or cannot offer you an appointment within a short time You may wish to change GPs. You may want to consider changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more details on how to exercise your choice.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist through the NHS or privately. Most of these providers will require a referral letter from your GP however some do not and you should check with your chosen provider before booking.
How can I get an assessment in private?
ADHD is an intricate mental disorder that affects brain processes like motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can cause problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact the symptoms have on your life, and help you manage the symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choice (RTC) by asking your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so it could be worthwhile looking for a different GP who is willing to.
Typically, an assessment will be carried out by a psychiatrist, or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level, as per NICE guidelines). Article is due to them being the only people who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a clinic interview, either in-person or via video call. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked about your current issues as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare specialist will determine if you have any of the symptoms that are associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsive nature. You will be asked to give instances of when you've displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will make use of this information to diagnose and recommend treatment options.
A private assessment can be helpful if you've been struggling for a long period of time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to note that a private assessment does not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You'll still need to discuss this with them, and if you decide to test medications, it is recommended that you seek a shared care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is willing to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of providers here. 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 where you can request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also provide an immediate diagnosis.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist who has experience of adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one as they are not easily accessible. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms but cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can assist you to manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for support services such as Disabled Students' allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert will be able to recognize and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues that you may have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can provide you with the best possible treatment.
You'll have to pay for your assessment. If you're diagnosed with ADHD it may 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 that you talk to your GP regarding an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you're doing and will give their consent should it be required.
Joining a support group is another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be extremely supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
The recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy regarding claims that private clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report suggested that these assessments were rushed and did not take into consideration all the symptoms or the consequences of ADHD on people's lives. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who are not eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pocket to receive a diagnosis and medication.
It is true that GPs may recommend an ADHD assessment with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) however they usually inform you that there is likely to be a waiting period. The waiting time is different from one company to another and is usually six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for word of mouth suggestions. Selecting a reputable and experienced business will most likely mean you will have less wait time than if you go through your GP.
In the course of the evaluation an evaluator will, albeit subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If necessary they will seek additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This is a stressful process, especially for those with complicated family circumstances or who cannot find their school records from their childhood.
Once you've been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are eligible to apply for disability support with your local authority. However, you should be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document referred to as the shared care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and have not also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.