ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other illnesses such as depression or thyroid problems. They may also ask for old school records or other supporting evidence.
It is essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This applies to both GPs and psychiatrists.
Waiting times
In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are waiting for years for an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as an extremely serious mental health condition and that it has significant impacts on people's lives. In some areas, waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The problem is made worse by the growing awareness of this condition as well as the rising demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to meet demand, and many patients opt to seek treatment from private clinics. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private healthcare from any provider.
One such service is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS in parts of the country. The number of adults seeking an assessment has grown exponentially, and is currently exceeding the capacity of the service. People who opt to take the private route are typically more successful, since private psychiatrists are accustomed to dealing with adults and will be more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiousness that can be a result of ADHD.
Many are still concerned about the accuracy of private assessments, and the potential for them to overdiagnose the condition. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following the proper process. Some have accused the programme of stoking stigma and stereotypes against those who suffer from ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, however, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who need this help are being required to seek it privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you may have ADHD You can try the free test offered by a charity, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are typically less expensive than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD It is essential to get a diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be advised to a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are a variety of private clinics offering diagnosis and titration services. These clinics have plenty of experience working with a broad range adults, including women and men who may suffer from ADHD. They also can screen for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive, but they are usually more efficient than NHS waiting times. Typically, you pay for a first assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments as needed. These appointments are covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you may be referred to additional tests, such as an MRI or EEG.
You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 in a private clinic for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis, and may be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment before he went to a doctor in desperate need. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases in which patients were diagnosed of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a serious issue because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse consequences.
In Scotland the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it is worthwhile to verify whether you are covered.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP recommends an expert clinic, the physician will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosis. They will also check for co-morbidities, or any other mental health issues. Often, these will be anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss the treatment options with you, including medication if appropriate.
During the assessment you will be asked about your family background and your current issues at home and work. They will also ask you about any medications that you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you should bring an experienced friend or relative with you to provide additional information. It usually takes a few visits for the evaluation to establish a diagnosis. Some clinics will offer a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only test specific symptoms.
Poor provision of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his doctor said that he didn't suffer from ADHD. The BBC argued that the report was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, but doctors can only refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many GPs will refuse to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way they can refer their patient's treatment to the NHS following an individual diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. GPs should also note that a lot of private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which could make it difficult for patients to receive the care they require.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD evaluation if they haven't already. You can determine website your estimated waiting time either by calling your local mental health clinic or by using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you to select an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Having an ADHD diagnosis can have a profound impact on your life. Not only does it help people understand themselves better, but it also helps them and their friends and family better support them. It also assists them to identify the right treatment strategy. It's not always easy to determine an assessment. In the UK people must wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can cause frustration for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can self-refer to a specialist psychiatrist for a private assessment. This can save you time and a trip to your GP. It is not an easy process and can take months but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You must make sure that the person who is conducting your assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to assess ADHD.
A private assessment may include an interview with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions regarding your mental health, childhood history and other aspects. The doctor will employ rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, at school, or in relationships. They will also discuss any other symptoms you have that could indicate the presence of ADHD.
The result will be a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will also prescribe medication. They can also assist you in obtaining other types of help, like tutoring and study skills. If you are a student, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
It is not ideal to cut corners, but the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. In the end, there are people who try to reduce costs by using online assessments and private clinics that provide quick appointments, but offer no expertise in clinical practice. These shortcuts are to be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek a diagnosis if they can afford it.