How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric assessment is required to determine ADHD. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a procedure that may involve some red tape for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. However, you can bypass the wait and get a private assessment by booking directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process will involve an in-depth clinical interview with a specialist and they will examine your symptoms from your early years to your adulthood. They will also consider if there are other neurological or mental health issues that may cause your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, including work or relationships and will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy forward one and many people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity can differ from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It may manifest as restlessness or a constant race. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, being organised or sitting down.
If you decide that medication could be beneficial to your symptoms, you'll require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to accomplish this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment within a short time, you may want to change GPs. You may want to think about changing GPs If this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more details on how to make a decision.
You might also be able to book an appointment with a private psychiatrist through the NHS or privately. Some providers do not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How can I get a private evaluation?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. It causes problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment can help you understand the impact the symptoms affect your life, and determine how you can manage these symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it might be worthwhile looking for a different GP who will.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse will usually conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). This is due to them being the only people who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician in person or via video calls. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current health issues and your past difficulties since childhood if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the symptoms that are associated with ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide instances of when you've shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will use these to make a diagnosis and recommend treatment options.
If you're suffering from a chronic illness and aren't willing to wait for a referral from the NHS getting an assessment privately is recommended. It is important to keep in mind that an assessment done privately does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will have to discuss the issue with them private adhd assessment and, if you choose to take medication, you must seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England is willing to refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer assessments online 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 called "Right to Choice" where you can ask your doctor for a referral to any of the specialists on their list - this can reduce the waiting time considerably. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
It is advisable to find a psychiatrist who has experience dealing with adult ADHD. It could take a while to locate one, since they are difficult to come by. Some clinics require a GP recommendation before they make an appointment. However this isn't always the case.
Psychiatrists are able to assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they are unable to provide you with a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD that is required to get access to assistance services like Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A specialist Psychiatrist will be able identify and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are consistent ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the best treatment if your honest and forthcoming.
You'll have to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your physician. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking to your GP about an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you're doing and to give their approval when needed.
Joining a support group can be another option to get together with other adults who suffer from ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and encouraging. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit, or check out local in person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report suggested that the assessments were made in a hurry and did not consider all the symptoms or the effects of ADHD on the lives of individuals. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and have to pay out of pocket for an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that GPs will often recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) however they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting time. The waiting time differs from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. It is advisable to research the provider carefully and ask family and friends members for recommendations. If you select a reputable and experienced company, you'll probably have a shorter waiting time than if you go to your GP.
During the evaluation, your psychiatrist will assess, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant disruption in your daily activities. They will want you to rule out other causes, like anxiety or depression. If necessary they will seek supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This could be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complicated family circumstances or for those who haven't been in a position to locate their school reports from their childhood.
Once you have been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you are able to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. However, you should be aware that a majority of GPs will refuse to sign a document called the shared care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and have not had a complete titration into your final dose of medication. This is because doctors do not have the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.