ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other medical conditions, such as thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records as well as other evidence.
It is essential that the person assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is the case for psychiatrists as well as GPs.
Waiting times
Adults in the UK who require ADHD diagnoses are left waiting years to visit psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognised as a serious mental health issue and has profound effects on people's lives. In certain areas, waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to take care of themselves through private providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care 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. It has seen a surge in the number of adults who seek an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults, and are better equipped to understand the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiousness that can be a result of ADHD.
Many are still worried about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose the disease. The issue came to the public's attention after an BBC Panorama investigation exposed the method by which some private clinics were awarding diagnoses without due process. Some have claimed that the program is spreading stigma and stereotyping about people with ADHD.
The BBC should be commended, for exposing the issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's a shame that some of those who need this assistance are being forced to seek it out privately, and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the situation. In the meantime, if you suspect you might have ADHD, you can try a free screening with a charity or request an assessment from private psychiatrists. They are generally less expensive than the NHS however they don't include prescriptions.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis when you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could also be referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are many private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have plenty of experience with a wide range of adults, both women and men, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also look for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments are expensive, but the waiting time for NHS services are significantly longer. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then schedule follow-up appointments if necessary. If you have insurance and coverage, it will cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a particular interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You will also be required to complete questionnaires, and you could be referred to further tests such as an MRI or EEG.
A private clinic will charge you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments provide titration that is separate from diagnosis, and may be less expensive. However the process of titration is longer and requires additional appointments.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited three years for an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases where patients were diagnosed of ADHD which was later cancelled. This is a serious issue since it can be very distressing for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse negative side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and the titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worth checking to see whether you are covered.
Referral to an expert clinic
If your GP recommends you to an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and conduct a clinical assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosing. They will also check for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment that are available, including medication if required.
During the test you will be asked questions about your family history and current problems at home and work. They will also ask about any medications you are taking. The interview will be structured and you can bring an adult or a relative to assist you through the process. It usually takes a few visits to determine an accurate diagnosis. Some clinics offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will only look at specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor treatment of ADHD in the NHS has brought it to the fore. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his GP claimed that he didn't suffer from ADHD. The BBC claimed that the report was an example of "over-diagnosis" by private firms. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further investigation or prescribe medication if they follow strict guidelines.
Many GPs refuse to sign a contract for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the patient's care to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They believe they aren't experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists do not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for patients to receive the care they require.
Request your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment in the event that they haven't yet. You can find out the estimated wait time by calling the local mental health service or by visiting the Right To Choose site. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that is provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
Being diagnosed with 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 family and friends better help them. Additionally, it can help them find a good treatment strategy. However, obtaining a diagnosis is not always easy. Especially in the UK where people are waiting for long periods for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for many who are trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can self-refer to an expert psychiatrist for a private assessment. This can save you time and a trip to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time however, it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person performing your test is a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to diagnose ADHD.
A private evaluation could involve an interview with psychiatrists. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood experiences and other aspects. The doctor will also utilize rating scales and ask about your current struggles in school, at work, and in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that may be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then provide a thorough ADHD report to your GP, with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They will also assist you in obtaining other forms of support, including tutoring and study skills. They will also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at a university.
While it's not ideal to take short cuts however, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. In the end, there are those who attempt read more to cut costs by using online assessments or private clinics that provide quick appointments with little or 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.