How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD an assessment of psychiatric disorders will need to take place. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It can be a long process, as the old school records might need to be provided. However, you can bypass the waiting and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually takes two sessions and is much more comprehensive than an NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The process involves an organized clinical interview with a specialist and they will look at your symptoms from early years to your adulthood. They will also look at other mental health issues or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity often is not as boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can be present as an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Similarly, inattentiveness can manifest as difficulty staying focused and seated or having trouble staying focused and forgetting things easily.
If you decide that medication could be beneficial to your condition, you will require a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will enable you to get reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be done by asking your GP to recommend you to a psychiatric assessment.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you to a specialist or give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it may be worth switching GPs - you can find more information about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may be able to make an appointment with a private psychiatrist on your own, either through the NHS or privately. The majority of these providers require a referral letter from your GP however some do not however, so make sure to make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
How can I get an individual evaluation?
ADHD is an intricate mental disorder that affects brain functions like motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and could be helpful in determining how they could be managed.
There are many 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 refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to one it might be worthwhile looking for a different GP who is willing to.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases the ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview in person or via video call. The typical time for this assessment is 45 to 90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked questions regarding your current problems and your background from childhood. The healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics that are characteristic of ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked to give examples of instances where you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine a diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
If you are struggling with an ongoing condition and do not want to wait for a referral from the NHS seeking an assessment privately is recommended. It is important to note that an assessment conducted privately does not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. It is still necessary to discuss the issue with them. If you decide to test medications, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You will find a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do private adhd assessment uk get a private diagnosis?
There are a variety of ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a "Right to Choose" process where you can request a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce waiting times. There are private practitioners who can diagnose quickly.
It is best to find an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one since they aren't easy to come by. Some will insist on a GP referral letter before they can see you for an assessment, but this is not always necessary.
Psychologists are able to evaluate your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can help you manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD which is required to get access to assistance services such as Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A Psychiatrist with expertise can diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also assess whether they are a result of ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues you may have. Your Psychiatrist is capable of providing you with the most effective treatment if you're open and honest.
You will have to pay for the assessment however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to get medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll have to pay the NHS prescription charge). If you're considering 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 give their approval should they be required.
It's also worth considering joining a support group to meet other adults who have ADHD and to hear about their experiences and solutions. They can be extremely supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that some private clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that the patient did not have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into account all the signs or effects of ADHD on people's lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and must pay out of pocket to receive an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that doctors will often refer you for an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they usually inform you that there is likely to be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting varies from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and then do a extensive research on the company. If you select a reputable and reputable company, you'll probably have an easier time waiting than if you visit your GP.
During the evaluation the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily activities. They will also want to rule out other reasons, such as anxiety or depression. If needed, they will ask for proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful time, especially for those with complicated family circumstances or who cannot find their childhood school records.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional, you can request disability benefits from your local authority. However, you must be aware that a majority of GPs will refuse to sign a document known as the shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and have not had a complete titration into your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that GPs do not have the experience to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.