Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is a condition that is often not recognized and is not treated, which comes at a significant cost to both society and individuals. This is in part due to the mindset of gatekeepers who control referral pathways.
It is possible to obtain an individual diagnosis through the NHS 'Right To Choose' scheme which allows you to be referred to a certified service that has contracts with the NHS. This can make the process much faster.
Waiting times
The NHS is swamped with demand for ADHD tests and treatment which has led to long wait times. Some people are waiting up to seven years to receive their first assessment the charity has warned. This puts adults who have undiagnosed ADHD in a dangerous position, said the charity, ADHD Action. This is despite the fact that awareness of ADHD has risen dramatically due to prominent celebrities who have been open about their struggles with the disorder, such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha.
One of the main reasons for the long waits is that there aren't enough NHS ADHD specialists to meet demand. This problem is not helped by the fact that the NHS does not regularly collect collected data which makes it difficult to determine the number of people waiting to be assessed. People who have access to private healthcare may choose a different path by asking their doctor for an out-of-area referral or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute meeting with psychiatrists who will inquire about your past and symptoms. The psychiatrist will then suggest the best treatment or medication based on the findings. Private assessments are an option for those looking for an accurate, quick diagnosis. However, you should note that certain providers require a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. This can affect your options when it comes to an agreement for shared care with your GP that means you only pay the NHS prescription fee for your medications.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be stressful, especially when you're struggling with your symptoms. It can also be a source of relief. A clear diagnosis can enhance your life by letting you make better decisions. Here are some suggestions to find the right doctor for you if you're thinking of a privately diagnosed patient.
Check the credentials and experience of a psychiatrist prior to selecting one. The psychiatrist should not only possess a medical degree, but also have completed specialist training within the field of mental health. Find out if the psychiatrist has a license to prescribe medication. It is also important to ensure that the psychiatrist has a special interest in treating ADHD. The psychiatrist should also be able to recognize and treat co-morbidities that are associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medically qualified doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They can help with emotional and physical problems, such as ADHD. Many psychiatrists are skilled in a variety of fields such as psychotherapy social work, pharmacology and psychotherapy. Some have also completed training in transcultural psychiatry. They have extensive experience in both child and adult psychotherapy.
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, you should start by speaking to your GP about your concerns. Your concerns should be taken seriously by your GP, who will refer you to an assessment. You should be prepared to discuss your symptoms as well as family history, as these can impact the diagnosis. Your doctor may request you to fill in an ADHD screener questionnaire before sending you to an assessment. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, and is usually done in person, but you can also complete the questionnaire over the telephone or by an online video call.
Only a Psychiatrist, or a specialist nurse, can conduct an assessment for ADHD. This is because only these health specialists can prescribe medications for the condition. If you'd prefer not to use medication, you can consult a psychologist for an assessment. The appointment lasts 90 minutes but your Psychiatrist could take longer as they will explore your symptoms as well as past.
A recent report by the BBC's Panorama program highlighted the long waiting lists for ADHD assessments on the NHS. The program also raised questions about some private ADHD assessment services. The report claimed that certain psychiatrists are diagnosing adults with ADHD and prescribing drugs to them without evaluating their symptoms. In some instances patients don't follow the prescribed medication. This can lead to serious adverse effects, including insomnia and high blood pressure.
At present, NHS patients can choose the provider they want to visit for an ADHD assessment. You can find a list of GPs who offer this service here. The list does not include every provider who has an agreement with NHS England. You can also get private treatment via Right to Choose, although consultation fees are not subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are a variety of treatments available to adults suffering from ADHD. There are a myriad of treatment options for adults with ADHD. The most well-known is stimulant medication. However, there are other non-medication treatments which can be helpful. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help improve symptoms of ADHD by changing negative thoughts and behaviours. This kind of therapy is typically an amalgamation of individual and group sessions and it requires a positive relationship with your therapist. You should also consider whether you are suffering from any mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression that can affect your ability to manage symptoms.
It is essential to speak to your GP regarding your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and recommend an ADHD assessment. You might be asked to complete a questionnaire, such as the DIVA test. Then, you will meet with a psychiatrist to discuss your issues and discover the treatment options available.
If you're unable to wait for a referral from the NHS or the NHS, a private ADHD assessment might be able to help. Private assessments involve an interview lasting between 45 and 90 minutes with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. The cost will range between PS500 and PS800. Some providers require the GP referral, whereas others do not.
A diagnosis of ADHD can improve your life by helping you to cope with your symptoms and lower stress levels. It can also lower the possibility that you take impulsive actions which can result in problems for your career and personal relationships. Participating in a support group is also beneficial to many people with ADHD. These groups can provide a supportive, empowering environment for people suffering from ADHD. You can find them on the internet or in person.
It is important to note that only a Psychiatrist or qualified specialist nurse can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health professionals are able to conduct an ADHD assessment but they are unable to give a definitive diagnosis of the disorder. A specialist nurse or psychiatrist can recommend an appropriate treatment for ADHD which could include lifestyle changes, medication, or psychological intervention.
Medication
As ADHD becomes more widely known, more people seek treatment for their symptoms. The NHS is unable to meet the demands. This is especially true for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. Private clinics are able to provide adults with ADHD with quick and easy assessments. These clinics offer a complete ADHD assessment, which includes written diagnosis. If needed, they'll prescribe medication.
BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a variety of private health clinics in the UK which were offering erroneous ADHD diagnoses. These clinics profit from the increasing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. However, this doesn't mean people with ADHD should stop seeking medical attention. Be aware that this condition is serious and can affect many aspects of your life. more helpful hints can reduce the lifespan by 12.7 years(2).
Finding a diagnosis for ADHD can be difficult especially if your GP is hesitant to refer you or has preconceived notions about what the disorder is. Despite the growing awareness of the disorder, these biases are still present and can hinder people from receiving the correct diagnosis. It is also important to remember that just because someone pays for healthcare, it does not mean they can evade the rules. Your healthcare provider should follow NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD.
If your doctor is unwilling to recommend you for an ADHD assessment or treatment, then you may consult a private psychiatrist. He will assess you and prescribe medication, if required. The psychiatrist will also conduct a clinical interview with you to determine whether your ADHD symptoms are affecting your life. The psychiatrist will ask you questions about your history and family mental health issues to determine the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A complete ADHD report will be included in the assessment and can be delivered directly to your GP. It can be used to justify claims for reasonable accommodations at work or Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).