How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. This will be done by a psychiatrist, or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can be a bit complicated, such as the need for old school reports to be provided. However, you can skip the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private appraisal?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The procedure involves an in-depth clinical interview with an expert, and they will evaluate your symptoms from early years to your adulthood. They will also consider if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that could cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis is not always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition suffer from multiple diagnoses. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are three of the main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity that is common in children. It can be manifested as a sense of the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Similarly, inattentiveness can manifest as a problem sitting still and being organised or having difficulty in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you think that medication could alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to speak with your GP and ask them to refer you to psychiatrists for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you, or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment within a short time you might want to change your GP. You might want to think about changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more information on how you can exercise your choice.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist via the NHS or privately. A majority of these doctors will require an appointment letter from your GP however some do not however, so make sure to check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How do I get an assessment in private?
ADHD is a nexus of mental disorder that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can create issues in many areas. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact the symptoms have on your life, and determine how you can manage the symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it could be worthwhile looking for a different GP who is willing to.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist typically conducts the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a clinic interview either in person or via video call. This usually takes 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked questions regarding your current problems as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare professional will then consider whether you have any of the characteristics that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of when you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will then utilize these to establish an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and don't want 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 an assessment done privately does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. It is still necessary to discuss the issue with them. If you do decide to try medications, it is recommended that you seek a shared care agreement with your GP.
If you have a GP in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider for an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of the providers here. Some of these providers offer online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD evaluation. The NHS has a process known as 'Right to Choose' where you can ask your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors that are on their list. This could cut down the wait time significantly. There are also private providers who can diagnose quickly.
In general, it is recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist with experience of adult ADHD. However, it could take a while to find one as they are not easily accessible. Some clinics require the GP referral before they schedule an appointment. However it is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help you manage symptoms. However they cannot give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the most effective treatment if you're honest and open.
You'll have to pay for the assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your physician. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for an private diagnosis, we would advise you to talk with your GP before you book an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
Joining a support group can be another option to get together with other adults with ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be extremely supportive, comforting and motivating. You can find online spaces through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private clinics offer a false diagnosis. A reporter who was undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all of them with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and did not consider the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket to receive an assessment or prescription.
private adhd assessment london is true that doctors will often refer you for an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) however they usually inform you that there is likely to be a waiting time. The waiting time differs from one provider to the next and is usually six weeks. It is recommended to study the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for referrals. Picking a reputable, experienced business will most likely mean you will have a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will, in a way determine if your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will seek to rule out other reasons, like thyroid, anxiety, depression or problems and will typically require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school reports if necessary. This could be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complicated family circumstances or those who aren't successful in finding their school records from childhood.
Once you've been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional you will be able to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. It is important to be aware that most GPs will not sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement in the event that you were diagnosed by a private doctor and haven't been fully titrated to the dosage. This is due to the fact that doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.