How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation will need to take place. This is performed by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since the old school records might need to be submitted. However, you can bypass the line and receive a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consult with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It usually takes two sessions, and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process involves an in-depth clinical interview with an expert, and they will evaluate your symptoms from your early years to your adulthood. They will also consider other mental health issues or neurological issues that could be contributing to your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, including relationships or work. They will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight straightforward one. Many people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. It is important to remember that the three main symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. In adults, hyperactivity usually looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could be present as the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Inattention can also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, staying organized or sitting down.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial for your symptoms, you'll need to get a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best method to do this is to talk to your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you or can't provide you with an appointment right away. You may want to consider changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more information on how you can make your decision.
You might also be able to book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider using the NHS system or privately. Most of these providers will require a referral letter from your GP but some don't and you should be sure to inquire with the chosen provider before booking.
How do I get an assessment from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain processes such as motivation as well as working memory and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can cause issues in many areas. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and could be useful in identifying the best ways to treat them.
There are several companies that can conduct 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 refer you to one it might be worthwhile to find another GP who is willing to.
Typically an assessment will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate in accordance with NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview in person or via video conference. The typical time for this assessment is 45 to 90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked regarding your current problems and your background from childhood. The healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics that are associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. You will be asked for instances of when you displayed these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then employ these to determine a diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
A private evaluation can be beneficial if you've been struggling for a long time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to know that the results of a private assessment do not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You will still need to discuss this with them and if you decide to try medication, it is recommended that you seek a shared care agreement with your GP.
You will find a list of providers if your doctor in England will refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choice" where you can request your GP for a referral to any of the specialist doctors that are on their list. This will reduce the time to wait considerably. Private providers can also provide a quick diagnosis.
It is advisable to find a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. However, it may take a while to find one, as they are not easily accessible. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an examination however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists can provide an assessment of your symptoms but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can assist you to manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to offer a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to receive support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert can identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they're consistent with ADHD and look into any other mental health issues you may have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can offer you the best possible treatment.
You will need to pay for your assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it may be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care arrangement with your doctor. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we would suggest you talk to your GP prior to scheduling an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and give their approval should they be required.
It is also worthwhile to consider joining a support group to connect with others who suffer from ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, comforting and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
private adult adhd assessment has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all of them with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were not thorough and did not consider the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that some patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is a fact that doctors will often suggest you to have an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) however they will typically advise you that there will likely be a waiting time. The waiting time varies from one provider to the next and is usually six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. Selecting a reputable and experienced firm will likely mean that you will experience a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the examination the psychiatrist will, somewhat subjectively examine whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out any other reasons, like depression, anxiety or thyroid problems and will typically ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood) and school records if necessary. This can be a difficult process, particularly for those who have more complicated family situations or for those who aren't in a position to locate their school records from childhood.
Once you have been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are eligible to apply for disability support at your local authority. However, you must be aware that most GPs will refuse to sign a document known as the shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and haven't also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.