How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric assessment is required to determine ADHD. This will be done by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy process, as old school records may need to be supplied. You can cut down on the waiting time by booking a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms, as well as how they affect your life. It usually lasts for two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The procedure involves a structured clinical interview with an expert and they will look at your symptoms from your childhood to adulthood. They will also determine if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will focus on different areas of functioning, like work or relationships and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect your life.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis is not always simple. Many people diagnosed with the condition suffer from an undiagnosed diagnosis. It is crucial to remember that the three main symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Adult hyperactivity can differ from boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant flurry of activity. Inattention may also manifest as an inability to concentrate on tasks, being organised or sitting for long periods of time.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial for your condition, you will need to get a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will permit you to receive reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to do this is to speak to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
You may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't offer you an appointment immediately. If private adhd assessment is the case, it might be worthwhile changing GPs and you can find more information about how to exercise your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist, either through the NHS or independently. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP but the majority of them do. Be sure to consult with your selected provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I get an assessment from a private person?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause issues in many areas of life for adults and can be difficult to manage. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and could help you determine how they could be managed.
There are several providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so, it may be worth finding another GP who is willing to.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview in person or via video chat. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current 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 traits that are associated with ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of times when you displayed these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
If you're suffering from a chronic condition and do not want to wait for a referral from the NHS, obtaining an assessment privately is recommended. It is important to remember that an assessment conducted privately does not necessarily mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You will need to discuss it with them If you decide to take medication, you should seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers if your doctor in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choice" where you can ask your GP for a referral to any of the specialist providers on their list - this can reduce the waiting time significantly. There are private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one since they aren't readily available. Some clinics will insist on a GP referral before they will make an appointment. However, this is not always required.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However they cannot offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for support services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist can identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues that you may have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist, so they can give you the best possible treatment.
You'll have to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care arrangement with your physician. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we'd suggest you talk to your GP prior to booking an appointment, so that they know what you're doing, and give their consent, in the event of need.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group to connect with others with ADHD and to hear about their stories and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online groups via Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are giving out unreliable diagnoses. An undercover reporter visited 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 suggested that these assessments were rushed and did not take into account all the symptoms or effects of ADHD on people's lives. It also raised concerns that some patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is no doubt that your physician will recommend one of the leading private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) however, they will tell you there could be a waiting time. The waiting period varies from one provider to another provider, but is typically around six weeks. Ask your family and friends for recommendations and conduct thorough research about the provider. If you choose a well-established and reputable business you'll likely have a shorter waiting time than if you go to your GP.
During the evaluation the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily functioning. They will seek to rule out any other causes, such as thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues. They will usually require evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school records if required. This can be a stressful time particularly for those with complex family situations or who are unable to locate their childhood school records.
Once you have been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. It is important to be aware that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract known as a shared-care arrangement when you were diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to the final dose of medicine. This is because GPs aren't qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.