Private ADHD Assessments
With NHS wait times for ADHD assessments at an all-time high it's tempting to look for alternatives. Private ADHD assessments are an option, but come with their own pros and cons.
Panorama, a BBC program, recently discovered that some private clinics push patients through low-quality tests and fail to diagnose them correctly. This is unfair to those affected.
What is a private assessment?
A private ADHD assessment is a meeting with a healthcare professional that is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. It could be a Psychiatrist, Specialist ADHD nurse or another "other approriately qualified healthcare professional" [Nice Guidelines].
You can ask your GP for a referral for an adult ADHD assessment on the NHS. They should be attentive to your concerns and request you to fill out a screener, then put you on the NHS waiting list.
You can also request an ADHD assessment at a mental health specialist like Priory. They have a variety of wellness centers and hospitals throughout the country, with a few capable of scheduling an appointment within 24-hours. Each has their own criteria for when a GP referral letter is needed (some require it, while others don't). If you choose this route then the GP can still be involved. A shared care agreement between the GP and patient may be signed should medication be prescribed. The formal recognition of ADHD is essential for protection in the workplace.
What can you expect during an evaluation in private?
A private ADHD evaluation typically involves a formal clinical discussion with an expert in healthcare who will ask you about your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. You'll also be asked to take a few cognitive tests and questionnaires to help get a clearer picture of your condition. These tools are non-invasive and easy to use.
You will also be asked to complete questionnaires to screen your pre-appointment date. These questionnaires help your psychiatrist to check whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Please return these as soon as you can before your appointment to ensure that you don't need to wait long before your appointment.
When you visit your consultant psychiatrist they will discuss your medical history and lifestyle and take into consideration any issues you might have experienced in the past. It is essential to be honest with your doctor so that they can be aware of the issues you are experiencing and determine the correct diagnosis.
During the interview the psychiatrist will take into consideration any concerns you have regarding your performance at work or in your relationships. They will also take into account any other symptoms you might be experiencing, including depression and anxiety. If they believe that these symptoms are related to your ADHD, then they will talk to you about it and suggest any treatment options that they believe you might benefit from.
After your psychiatrist has completed the interview, they will go over the information you've provided. The psychiatrist will discuss their findings with you, and answer any questions you may have. If necessary, they will suggest that you start taking treatment and provide you with an appointment.
While there is an increase in awareness of the issue, it can still be difficult to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to various reasons, such as biases towards minorities and women in healthcare professionals. Untreated ADHD can lead to years of undiagnosed problems in both professional and personal life.
What is the cost of a private assessment?
Private ADHD assessments can be expensive. There are alternatives for those who can't afford the full cost. Some organizations offer sliding scale rates based on the income level of the individual. Some providers offer free assessments to those who cannot afford one.
If you are unable to pay for a private examination, another option is to ask your insurance provider to cover the costs. You can do this by contacting your insurer directly and inquire about the coverage they offer. A lot of insurance companies have a list of providers that includes the locations or providers that accept their insurance. This can help narrow down the options for those who don't have access to a psychiatrist in private.
Private ADHD assessments are usually performed by a specialist nurse, psychologist, or psychiatrist. In the UK only these professionals are competent to diagnose ADHD. During the assessment the healthcare professional will interview the individual and review their medical history. They will also review the individual's symptoms and how they impact their daily life. The healthcare professional will look at any family mental health issues.
It is important to remember that there aren't any specific tests for ADHD and the diagnosis depends on the experience of a healthcare professional's and opinion. It is therefore important to select a healthcare professional who has the experience and knowledge to diagnose and treat ADHD.
It is essential to inform your healthcare professional that you are seeking to be diagnosed with ADHD when you need an assessment. This will ensure that the test is thorough and covers all relevant aspects of the disorder. Additionally, it is important to provide the healthcare professional with any additional information that may be relevant, like the family history of ADHD or other mental health conditions.
Finally, it is important to remember that an ADHD assessment can take several weeks to be completed. Therefore, it is important to make an appointment with your healthcare professional as soon as you can after you inquire about an assessment.
Can I get a private ADHD diagnosis?
ADHD can be a challenging diagnosis for GPs. If your doctor does not have any experience with the disorder, they could refer you to a specialist like an Psychiatrist. These healthcare professionals are able to assess and diagnose ADHD for adults as well as children. They can also prescribe medications, if necessary.
It is important to know that only Psychiatrists or Psychologists can diagnose ADHD in the UK. If you are evaluated and diagnosed by a mental health professional such as a counsellor, Nurse or Psychologist they cannot give you a formal diagnosis of ADHD. Doctors are legally required to sign shared-care agreements with NHS mental services if they are able to confirm that a qualified Psychiatrist or any other mental health professional diagnoses you with ADHD and prescribes medication.
If you opt to have an examination at a private clinic, you will have to pay for the assessment, however it must be based on scientific evidence and adhere to NICE guidelines. It is also important to remember that the services you have access to through private health insurance might not be as extensive as NHS services. It is important to find a clinic with a good reputation and that adheres to high standards of care.
After you have completed your private evaluation and have been given a diagnosis, you'll need to discuss whether or not you want to seek treatment for ADHD with your GP. It is crucial that you know the benefits and risks of taking medications for ADHD prior to making a decision.
A psychiatrist will be able evaluate your symptoms and take into account any co-morbidities you may have. They will then decide the best way to proceed. If how much is a private adhd assessment uk decide to use medication for ADHD you should be titrated into the final dose prior to leaving your GPs care.
In the past, it was common practice to have private clinics diagnose ADHD in children and adults, and then prescribe medication. Recently, it was reported that many companies were not accurately assessing their patients and providing unreliable diagnoses. This puts children and adults at risk, and it is crucial to select a reliable and reputable clinic when seeking an assessment for ADHD.