How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation is required. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy process, as the old school records might need to be provided. You can avoid the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a session where you meet with an expert to discuss your symptoms, as well as how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process will involve an organized clinical interview with an expert, and they will look at your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also look at other neurological or mental health issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, like relationships or work. They will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition suffer from a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is often different from the raucous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It may manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant rush around. 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 believe that medication can alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will enable you to receive reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment.
You may find that your GP isn't keen to refer you or can't provide you with an appointment right away. You might want to think about changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more details on how to make a decision.
You may also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner using the NHS system or privately. A majority of these doctors will require a referral letter from your GP but some don't, so be sure to inquire with the chosen provider prior to booking.
How can I get an evaluation from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental condition that affects brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be challenging to live with. A private ADHD assessment can help you understand the impact the symptoms have on your life, and help you manage the symptoms.
There are several providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) when you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to make this request, you may want to find a different GP willing to do it.
Typically, an assessment will be carried out by a psychiatrist, or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level according to NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or via video calls. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked questions regarding your current problems as well as private adhd assessment your past struggles since childhood. The healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature. You will be asked for instances of when you displayed these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and recommend treatment options.
A private assessment can be helpful if you have been struggling for a long period of time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to note that the results of a private assessment do not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You will need to discuss it with them and, if you choose to take medication, you must consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is willing to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of providers here. Some of these providers offer online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process known as "Right to Choose" where you can ask your doctor to refer you to one of the specialist doctors that are on their list. This will reduce the time to wait significantly. There are also private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
It is advisable to seek out a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. It might take a while to locate one, since they are difficult to come by. Some clinics will insist on a GP referral before they will schedule an appointment. However, this is not always the case.
Psychiatrists can provide an assessment of your symptoms, but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be able to access support services such as Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A Psychiatrist who is experienced can diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether your symptoms are consistent ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the most effective treatment if you're honest and forthcoming.
You'll need to pay for your assessment. If you're diagnosed with ADHD it may be possible to receive medication under a shared-care agreement with your GP. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking to your GP regarding an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you're doing and give their consent when needed.
It's also worth considering joining a support group to connect with others with ADHD and to hear about their stories and suggestions. They can be incredibly helpful, encouraging and reassuring. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics offer a false diagnosis. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though the patient did not have ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were not thorough and did not take into consideration the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that patients who are not eligible for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pocket to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is no doubt that your GP will recommend one of the major private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory), but they will tell you there will be a possible waiting period. The waiting time varies from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. It is advisable to study the provider thoroughly and ask friends and family members for suggestions. Selecting a reputable and experienced business will most likely mean you will have less wait time than if you choose to go through your GP.
During the assessment your psychiatrist will evaluate the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out other causes, like anxiety or depression. If needed they will seek proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful time especially for those who have complicated family circumstances or who can't locate their school records from childhood.
After you have been evaluated and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you'll be able to apply for disability support through your local authority. But, be aware that most GPs will not sign a document referred to as the shared care agreement when you've been diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.