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. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy process, as the old school records might need to be submitted. You can avoid the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment of ADHD is a session where you sit down with an expert to discuss your symptoms, as well as how they impact your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The process involves an organized clinical interview with an expert who will evaluate your symptoms from early years to your adulthood. They will also examine other mental health issues or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, such as relationships or work, and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis is not always simple. Many people diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. It is important to remember that the three primary symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Adult hyperactivity can differ from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can be characterized by restlessness or a constant rush around. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, organising or sitting for long periods of time.
If you think medication will aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, or if they are unable to provide you with an immediate appointment you might want to change GPs. You may want to consider changing GPs If this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how to exercise your choice.
You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner via the NHS system or privately. A majority of these doctors will require a referral letter from your GP but some don't and you should check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I get a private evaluation?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and can be useful in identifying ways to manage them.
There are a number of providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so, it may be worthwhile to find another GP who is willing to.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a medical interview, either in person or over video calls. This will usually last for 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current problems and any previous issues you have had in your early years if you are an adult. A healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide instances of when you've displayed these traits. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and recommend treatment options.
If you're suffering from an ongoing condition and don't want to wait for an appointment from the NHS, obtaining an assessment privately is recommended. It is important to remember that a private assessment does not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You'll still need to discuss this with them and if you decide to try medications it is recommended that you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment You can find a list of providers here. Some of these providers provide online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a "Right to Choose" process that allows you to ask for a private adhd assessment referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. There are also private providers who can offer a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. It may take some time to find one, as they can be difficult to come by. Some will require a GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination however this is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can help manage your symptoms. However, they are unable to give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for assistance such as the Disabled Student's allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they are consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues that you may have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can provide you with the best treatment possible.
You'll have to pay for the exam, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll be required to pay the NHS prescription cost). If you're thinking about paying for an private diagnosis, we'd advise you to talk with your GP before you book an appointment so they know what you're doing and can give their consent, in the event of need.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to meet others who suffer from ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be very helpful, reassuring and motivating. You can find online communities on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers, and was identified by all of them with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report suggested that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into account all the symptoms or consequences of ADHD on people's lives. It also raised concerns that patients who are not eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is a fact that GPs will often recommend an ADHD assessment through one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will typically advise you that there is likely to be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting differs from one provider to the next and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct extensive research on the company. If you choose a well-established and reputable business, you'll probably have an easier time waiting than if you see your GP.
During the examination, your psychiatrist will assess in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily activities. They will also want to rule out other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If they are required they will seek supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful experience especially for those who have complicated family relationships or who are unable to locate their school records from childhood.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced healthcare professional You can apply for disability benefits from your local authority. It is important to be aware, however, that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract called a shared-care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and you haven't been titrated fully to the dosage. This is due to the fact that doctors do not have the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.