How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric assessment is required to diagnose ADHD. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist, or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a procedure that may require some red tape like the requirement for old school reports to be provided. However, you can skip the wait and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private appraisal?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically takes two sessions, and is more detailed than a NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The process consists of an organized interview with an expert who will examine 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 crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis isn't always simple. Many people diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. Adult hyperactivity can differ from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or a constant flurry of activity. In the same way, inattention may manifest as a problem staying focused and seated or having trouble focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you think medication will alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you, or cannot offer you an immediate appointment, you may want to change GPs. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile changing GPs - you can learn more about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
private adhd assessment adults might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist on your own through the NHS or privately. Some providers might not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How can I get a private assessment?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. It can cause problems in many areas of life for adults and can be challenging to manage. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and could help you determine the best ways to treat them.
There are a number of providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you, it may be worthwhile looking for a different GP who will.
Typically, an assessment will be carried out by a psychiatrist, or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate in accordance with NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview in person or via video chat. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current problems and any previous issues you have had in your early years if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the symptoms associated with ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked for examples of when you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine a diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
If you're suffering from a chronic condition and aren't willing to wait for a referral from the NHS seeking an assessment from a private practitioner is advisable. However, it is important to keep in mind that a private diagnosis does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will still need to discuss the issue with them. If you decide to test medication it is recommended you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to recommend 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 request your GP for a referral to one of the specialist providers that are on their list. This could cut down the wait time considerably. Private providers can also offer an immediate diagnosis.
It is advisable to seek out a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, since they are difficult to find. Some will require an GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment, but this is not always required.
Psychiatrists are able to provide an evaluation of your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However, they are not able to offer 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 they are a result of ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues you might have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can give you the best possible treatment.
You'll need to pay for the assessment however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to pay the NHS prescription cost). We suggest speaking with your GP about a private diagnosis before booking an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you're doing and give their consent when needed.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to connect with others with ADHD, and hear their experiences and solutions. They can be incredibly helpful, encouraging and reassuring. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses. private adhd assessment uk 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 made in a hurry and did not consider all the signs or impact of ADHD on the lives of individuals. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and must pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
There is no doubt that your GP will recommend one of the major private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will tell you there will be a possible waiting time. The waiting period varies from one provider to another provider and is usually around six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and then do a thorough research on the provider. Choosing an experienced and well-established company will probably mean you will experience an easier time waiting than if you use your GP.
In the course of the evaluation, a psychiatrist will, in a way, assess whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, such as anxiety or depression. If necessary they will seek proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This could be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complicated family circumstances or for those who have not been able to find their school reports from their childhood.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional you may request disability benefits from your local authority. You should be aware that the majority of GPs aren't likely to sign a contract known as a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed by a private doctor and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.