How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to determine ADHD. This will be done by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since documents from school may have to be submitted. However, you can bypass the waiting and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consult with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically requires two sessions and is much more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process will involve a structured clinical interview with a specialist, and they will examine your symptoms from your childhood through adulthood. They will also determine if there are any other disorders of the brain or mental issues that could cause your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight straightforward one. Many people who are told they have the condition have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the raucous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It can manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant rush around. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, being organised or sitting still.
If private adult adhd assessment believe that medication can aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will permit you to receive reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to accomplish this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you, or is unable to make an appointment in a hurry You may wish to change your GP. You may want to consider changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how you can make a decision.
You might also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider, either through the NHS system or on your own. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP but the majority of them will. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How do I obtain an individual evaluation?
ADHD is an intricate mental disorder that affects brain processes such as motivation as well as working memory and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact the symptoms have on your life, and help you manage them.
There are a number of providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choice (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it could be worthwhile looking for a different GP who will.
The majority of assessments are performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or other appropriate healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or via video call. This will usually last for 45 to 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current health issues as well as your previous struggles in your early years if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the characteristics associated with ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide examples of when you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will utilize these to establish an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you're suffering from a chronic condition and don't want to wait for a referral from the NHS getting an assessment from a private practitioner is recommended. However, it is important to keep in mind that an assessment done privately does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will need to discuss it with them and, if you choose to take medication, you must seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment You can find a list of the providers here. Some of these providers provide online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a variety of ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to choose" process that allows you to ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. There are private practitioners who can diagnose quickly.
In general, it is best to find an expert psychiatrist with had experience with adult ADHD. However, private adhd assessment cost may take a while to find one since they aren't easy to come by. Some clinics will insist on a GP referral before they will make an appointment. However, this is not always required.
Psychologists are able to evaluate the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However they cannot 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 with expertise can identify and explain your symptoms. They will also assess whether your symptoms are consistent ADHD and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is 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 get medication through a shared-care arrangement with your physician. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking of paying for an private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP prior to scheduling an appointment so they know what you're doing and can provide their consent should they be required.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to connect with others who suffer from ADHD and share their experiences and solutions. They can be incredibly helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that private clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was identified by all of them with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report suggested that the assessments were not thorough and did not consider all the symptoms or consequences of ADHD on the lives of individuals. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pocket to be diagnosed and receive medication.
It is true that GPs may refer you for an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) but they will typically advise you that there is likely to be a waiting time. The time frame for waiting differs from one provider to another, but is typically six weeks. It is advisable to research the provider carefully and ask your family and friends members for recommendations. Picking a reputable, experienced company will probably mean you will have a shorter wait than if you go through your GP.
In the course of the evaluation an evaluator will, albeit subjectively, assess whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out other causes, such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid problems and will typically request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school reports, if required. This could be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complex family circumstances or those who haven't been able to find their school records from childhood.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional, you can apply for disability benefits through your local authority. However, you must be aware that most GPs will refuse to sign a document referred to as an agreement for shared care if you have been diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because GPs do not have the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medications.