How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation is required. This will be done by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could involve some red tape like the requirement for old school reports to be submitted. You can get rid of the wait by booking an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The process involves a structured clinical interview with a specialist and they will look at your symptoms from your childhood to adulthood. They will also look into whether there are any other neurological or mental health issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, like relationships or work, and will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect your life.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy straightforward one. Many people who are told that they have the condition have a mixed diagnosis. It is essential to keep in mind that the three most prominent symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It could be characterized by restlessness or a constant rush around. In the same way, inattention may be a sign of difficulty sitting still and being organised or having trouble in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial for your symptoms, you will need to get an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will permit you to receive reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. If this is the case, it might be worth switching GPs - you can learn more about how to make use of your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist via the NHS or privately. Most of these providers will require an appointment letter from your GP however some do not and you should check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How can I get an assessment from a private person?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can lead to difficulties in a variety of areas. A private ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact the symptoms have on your life, and identify how to manage the symptoms.
There are a number of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unwilling to do this then you may need to find a different GP willing to assist you.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). They are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In most cases, the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or via video calls. The typical time for this assessment is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked about your current difficulties and your background from childhood. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the traits that are characteristic of ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to give examples of when you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine an assessment and suggest treatment options.
A private assessment may be helpful if you have been struggling for a long period of time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to keep in mind that a private diagnosis does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. It is still necessary to discuss this with them, and if you do decide to try medications it is recommended you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You will find a list of providers if your doctor in England is willing to refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers 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 offers a procedure called "Right to Choose" where you can ask your doctor for a referral to any of the specialist providers that are on their list. This will reduce the time to wait considerably. There are private providers who can diagnose quickly.
In private adhd assessment uk , it is best to find an expert psychiatrist with experience of adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one since they aren't readily available. Some clinics will insist on the GP referral before they will make an appointment. However this isn't always necessary.
Psychiatrists can provide an evaluation of your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists can help you manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to access assistance services such as Disabled Students' Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to recognize and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you may have. It is crucial to be honest and open with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can give you the best possible treatment.
You'll need to pay for the exam however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll be required to have to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest that you talk with your GP about an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you are doing and give their consent if necessary.
It's also worth considering joining a support group in order to connect with others who suffer from ADHD and share their experiences and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit, or check out local in person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are handing out inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that he did not have ADHD. The report suggested that the assessments were rushed and did not take into consideration all the symptoms or the consequences of ADHD on people's lives. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and must pay out-of-pocket to get an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that GPs will often suggest you to have an ADHD assessment with one of the most prominent private companies (such as Priory) but they will typically advise you that there is likely to be a waiting period. This differs from provider to provider, but is typically about six weeks. Ask your family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research on the provider. If you choose a well-established and reputable business you'll likely have an easier time waiting than if you see your GP.
During the assessment an evaluator will, somewhat subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will also want to rule out any other causes, like anxiety or depression. If needed, they will ask for supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complex family circumstances or for those who aren't in a position to locate their childhood school reports.
Once you have been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional you will be eligible to apply for disability support at your local authority. You should be aware that the majority of GPs won't sign a document known as a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed by a private doctor and aren't fully titrated to the dosage. This is because GPs aren't qualified to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.