Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD remains significantly under-diagnosed and under-treated, at great cost to individuals and society. This is partially because of the attitude of gatekeepers who manage referral pathways.
You can obtain a private diagnostic by utilizing the NHS "Right To Choose" scheme. This lets you be directed by the NHS to a reputable service that has contracts. This can speed the process up.
Waiting times
The NHS is flooded with requests for ADHD tests and treatment which has led to long wait times. A charity warned that some patients wait for seven years to receive their first assessment. This is leaving adults who aren't being diagnosed with ADHD in a precarious situation, according to the charity, ADHD Action. This is despite the fact that awareness of ADHD has soared due to prominent celebrities who have been open about their struggles with the condition such as Loose Women presenter Nadia Sawalha.
The NHS doesn't have enough ADHD specialists to meet the demand. The NHS does not routinely gather data, making it difficult to know the number of people who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. People who have access to private health care can choose a different path by asking their doctor for a referral outside of the area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute consultation with psychiatrists who ask questions about your history and symptoms. The psychiatrist will then recommend the best treatment or medication based upon the results. Private assessments are an alternative for those seeking an accurate, quick diagnosis. However, you should be aware that some providers require an GP referral letter, whereas others do not. This could affect your options if you decide to sign a shared-care agreement with your GP. In this case you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription costs for your prescriptions.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be stressful, especially if you're struggling with your symptoms. It can be a welcome relief. Being able to identify the cause of your illness will aid you in making better decisions regarding your life and enhance your quality of life. Here are some tips for finding the right provider for you if you're thinking of a privately diagnosed patient.
When choosing a psychiatrist, examine the credentials of the doctor as well as their experience. In addition to having a medical degree, the psychiatrist must have completed specialized training in the field of mental health. You should also find out whether the psychiatrist is certified to prescribe medication. Make sure the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. The psychiatrist should also be able recognize and treat co-morbidities that are associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medically qualified doctors who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They can help with physical and emotional issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are skilled in a number of areas, including psychotherapy as well as social work and pharmacology. Some have also completed training in transcultural psychiatry. They have vast experience with both children and adults psychiatry.
You should first talk to your GP to discuss your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment. You must be prepared to talk about your symptoms and family history, since these can impact on the diagnosis. Your doctor may request you to fill in an ADHD screening questionnaire prior to making an appointment for an assessment. It can take up to an hour and is usually completed in person, however you can also fill out the questionnaire over the phone or via an online video call.
An assessment for ADHD can only be done by a Psychiatrist or specialist nurse. Only these health professionals are able to prescribe medications for this condition. If you prefer not to take medication, you can still see a psychologist. The assessment usually lasts for 90 minutes, however, you can expect to spend longer than this because your Psychiatrist will be looking into your symptoms and history.
BBC's Panorama show recently highlighted the long waiting times for ADHD assessments in the NHS. The program also questioned quality of certain private ADHD assessment services. The report stated that certain psychiatrists diagnose adults with ADHD, and prescribe them drugs without properly assessing symptoms. In some cases, patients aren't taking the medication as instructed. This can cause serious side effects, such as insomnia and high blood pressure.
Presently, NHS patients can choose the doctor they wish to see for an ADHD assessment. There is a list of GPs who offer this service here. The list doesn't contain every provider that has a contract with NHS England. You can also get private treatment via Right to Choose, although the consultation fees aren't subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are many different treatment options available for adults suffering from ADHD. The most well-known is stimulant medication, but there are also many non-medication treatments that can be helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance, can help improve ADHD symptoms by transforming negative thoughts or behaviours. This type of therapy usually requires a mix of individual and group sessions and requires a solid relationship with your counselor. It is also crucial to consider whether you suffer from any co-existing mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, since these can impact your ability to manage your symptoms.
If you suspect you have ADHD If you suspect that you have ADHD, it is essential to speak with your GP and explain your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you for an ADHD evaluation. You may be asked for a questionnaire such as the DIVA test. Then, you will meet with a psychiatrist to discuss your issues and discover the treatment options available.
A private ADHD assessment is a good alternative if you're unable to wait for an NHS referral. Private assessments involve a 45-90-minute interview with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. The cost will range from PS500 to 800. Some providers require the GP referral, whereas others do not.
An ADHD diagnosis can enhance your private adhd assessment quality of life by assisting you in dealing with your symptoms and decreasing stress levels. It can also decrease the risk of taking impulsive decisions which can lead to problems in your work or personal relationships. Participating in a support group can be beneficial for a lot of adults with ADHD. These groups can be an empowering, supportive environment for those suffering from ADHD. You can find them online or in person.
It is crucial to understand that only a certified specialist nurse or Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health professionals are able to conduct an ADHD assessment however they are not able to give a definitive diagnosis of the disorder. A Psychiatrist, specialist nurse, or other mental health professional can recommend the most appropriate treatment for ADHD. This could involve medication, lifestyle changes, or psychological intervention.
Medication
With the increasing awareness of ADHD increasing numbers of people are seeking treatment for their symptoms. As a result, the NHS is trying to keep up with demand. This is particularly relevant for adults who require ADHD assessment which can take up to several weeks. Private clinics can provide people with ADHD with fast and efficient assessments. These clinics offer a thorough ADHD evaluation, including a written diagnosis. They can also prescribe medication if necessary.
The BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a number private health clinics that were awarding inappropriate ADHD diagnoses in the UK. These clinics profit from the increasing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. But this doesn't mean that people suffering from ADHD should stop seeking medical help. Be aware that this condition can be very serious and affect a variety of aspects of your life. If left untreated, ADHD can decrease life expectancy by 12.7 years(2).
It can be difficult to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD especially if you have a GP who is hesitant or has preconceived beliefs about the disorder. These prejudices persist despite the increasing awareness of the disorder. They can prevent people from getting a proper diagnosis. It is also important to realize that just because someone pays for healthcare, it does not mean that they can bend the rules. Your healthcare professional must follow NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your doctor is unwilling to refer you for ADHD assessment or treatment, then you may consult a private psychiatrist. He will evaluate you and prescribe medication, if required. The psychiatrist will also conduct an interview to determine whether your ADHD symptoms have a negative impact on your life. The psychiatrist will inquire about your family history as well as your personal history to determine the degree of your ADHD.
A comprehensive ADHD report will be included in the assessment and directly sent to your GP. It can be used as a proof to back claims for reasonable adjustments at work or Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for students.