How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation is required. This is performed by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can be a bit complicated for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. You can cut down on the waiting time by booking a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically takes two sessions and is more detailed than a NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process involves a structured interview with a expert who will look at your symptoms from childhood until adulthood. They will also consider other issues with your mental health or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy forward one and many people who are told they suffer from the disorder have a mixed diagnosis. It is essential to keep in mind that the three most prominent symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or a constant race. Similarly, inattentiveness can manifest as difficulty staying focused and seated or having trouble in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you believe that medication can alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to speak to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you, or cannot offer you an appointment in a hurry You may wish to change GPs. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile changing GPs and you can find more information about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider via the NHS system or privately. The majority of these providers require a referral letter from your GP however some do not and you should make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to booking.
How can I get a private assessment?
ADHD is a nexus of mental disorder that affects brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can lead to issues in many areas. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your daily life and be helpful in determining ways to manage them.
There are a number of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can assert your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to make this request, you may want to find another GP willing to assist you.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In most cases the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a medical interview in person or via video call. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current health issues as well as your previous struggles since childhood if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will then determine if you exhibit any of the symptoms that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked for instances where you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine an assessment and recommend treatment options.
A private assessment may be helpful if you've been having a difficult time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. However, it is important to keep in mind that an assessment done privately does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. private adhd assessment will still need to discuss this with them, and if you decide to try medication it is recommended you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a "Right to Choose" process where you can ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce waiting times. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
It is recommended to find a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. However, it may take a while to find one, as they are not easy to come by. Some will require an GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment, but this is not always required.
Psychologists are able to evaluate your symptoms but cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists - can help you manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a formal diagnosis of ADHD which is required to access support services such as Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist is in a position to give you the most effective treatment if you're honest and open.
You will have to pay for the examination, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll be required to have to pay the NHS prescription cost). If you're thinking of paying for an private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP before you book an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
It is also worthwhile to consider joining a support group in order to meet others with ADHD and to hear about their experiences and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and encouraging. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the assertion that private clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment providers, and was identified by all of them with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were made in a hurry, and did not consider the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. The report also raised concerns about patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and must pay out of pocket for an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that doctors will often suggest you to have an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they will typically advise you that there is likely to be a waiting period. The waiting period is different from one company to another, but is typically six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct extensive research on the company. If you choose a well-established and experienced company you'll likely experience an easier time waiting than if you go to your GP.
In the course of the evaluation, a psychiatrist will, in a way determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will seek to rule out other causes, such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid issues. They will usually require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms about your childhood) and school reports, if required. This can be a difficult procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or those who have not been successful in finding their school reports from their childhood.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced healthcare professional You can request disability benefits from your local authority. However, you should be aware that most GPs are not willing to sign a document called the shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and haven't also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is because doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.