Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is still largely undiagnosed and under-treated, at great cost to society and individuals. This is largely due to the attitudes of gatekeepers who manage referral pathways.
You can receive a personal diagnosis through the NHS "Right to Choose" scheme. This allows you to be directed by the NHS to a certified service that has contracts. This can speed the process up.
Waiting times
The NHS is flooded with requests for ADHD assessments and treatments which means long waits. Some people are waiting seven years to receive their first assessment according to a charity warning. This is leaving adults who aren't diagnosed with ADHD in a precarious position, said the charity, ADHD Action. The charity ADHD Action stated that this is despite the fact the awareness of ADHD has grown due to the success of celebrities like Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
The NHS is not equipped with enough ADHD specialists to meet the demand. The NHS does not routinely collect data, which makes it difficult to figure out the number of people who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. Patients who have access to private healthcare can opt for a different path, by asking their GP for a referral outside of the area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is 45-90 minutes with a psychiatrist. He will ask you questions about your symptoms and past history. They will then recommend the appropriate course of treatment or treatment according to their findings. Private assessments are an alternative for those seeking an immediate, accurate diagnosis. Be aware that some providers will require a referral from a doctor and others don't. This can affect your options if you decide to sign an agreement for shared-care with your GP. In this scenario you will only be charged the NHS prescription costs for your prescriptions.
It can be difficult to receive an ADHD diagnosis, particularly when your symptoms are causing you to feel stressed. It can also be a source of relief. Having a clear diagnosis can help you make better decisions about your life and improve your quality of life. If you're considering a private diagnosis, here are some tips to help you choose the right provider.
When selecting a psychiatrist check the doctor's credentials and experience. In addition to having a medical degree, the psychiatrist should have completed specialized training in the area of mental health. It is also important to determine whether the psychiatrist is certified to prescribe medication. Also, you should ensure that the psychiatrist has a particular interest in treating ADHD. The psychiatrist should also be able identify and treat co-morbidities associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors and are specialists in diagnosing and treating mental health issues. They can help with emotional and physical problems like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in several areas, such as psychotherapy, social services, and pharmacology. Some have also completed training in transcultural psychiatry, and have extensive experience in both adult and child psychiatry.
If you're interested in being diagnosed with ADHD You should begin with talking to your GP about your concerns. Your concerns should be taken seriously by your GP who will refer you to an assessment. You should be prepared to speak about your symptoms and family history, as these can impact on the diagnosis. Before referring you to an evaluation, your doctor may request you to complete an ADHD screener. This can take an hour, and is typically done face-to-face. However you can fill out the questionnaire via phone or online via video.
Only a Psychiatrist, or a specialist nurse, is able to conduct an assessment for ADHD. Only these health professionals are able to prescribe medication for this condition. However, if you would prefer not to use medication, you can consult a psychologist for an assessment. The assessment lasts 90 minutes, but your Psychiatrist could take longer in the process as they explore your symptoms and previous.
BBC's Panorama show recently highlighted the lengthy waiting times for ADHD assessments in the NHS. The program also questioned certain private ADHD assessment services. The report suggested that some psychiatrists are diagnosing adult with ADHD and prescribing them drugs without properly assessing the severity of their symptoms. In some instances patients don't follow the prescribed medication. This could cause serious side effects, such as insomnia and high blood pressure.
Currently the NHS allows patients to choose the provider they visit for an ADHD assessment. Here is a list of GPs who provide this service. However the list doesn't include all providers who have agreements with NHS England. Right to Choose allows you to access private treatment, however, the consultation fee will not be subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are a myriad of treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. The most well-known is stimulant medication, but there are a variety of non-medication treatments that can be helpful. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help improve symptoms of ADHD by changing negative thoughts and behavior. This kind of therapy is usually a combination of sessions with a group or individual, and it requires a positive relationship with your counselor. You should also consider whether you are suffering from any mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, which could hinder your ability to manage your symptoms.
If you suspect that you might have ADHD, it is important to talk to your GP and express your concerns. They should be able to take your concerns seriously and refer you to an ADHD evaluation. You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire such as the DIVA test. You will then see a psychiatrist to discuss your issues and discover what treatment options are available.
If you aren't able to wait to receive a referral from the NHS or an individual ADHD assessment might be able to assist. A private assessment entails an interview lasting between 45 and 90 minutes with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. The price will vary between PS500 and PS800. Some providers require the referral of a GP however, others don't.
An ADHD diagnosis can improve your quality of life by helping you cope with your symptoms and reducing stress levels. It can also reduce the possibility that you take impulsive actions which can create problems in your work and personal relationships. Many people who suffer from ADHD can also benefit from joining a support group. These groups can be an empowering, supportive environment for those suffering from ADHD. You can find them on the internet or in person.
It is vital to know that only a qualified Psychiatrist or specialist nurse can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental healthcare professionals can assess ADHD but they are not able to diagnose the disorder. A specialist nurse or psychiatrist can suggest an appropriate treatment option for ADHD which could include lifestyle changes, medication or psychological intervention.
Medication
As ADHD becomes more well-known increasing numbers of people seek treatment for their symptoms. The NHS is unable to meet the demand. This is particularly the case for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. Fortunately, there are private clinics that offer quick and convenient assessments for adults suffering from ADHD. These clinics offer a comprehensive ADHD assessment, including a written diagnosis. If needed, they'll prescribe medication.
Highly recommended Resource site exposed a number of private health clinics that were giving incorrect ADHD diagnoses in the UK. These clinics profit from the rising demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. However, this doesn't mean that people suffering from ADHD should stop seeking medical assistance. Remember that this disorder is serious and can impact many aspects of your life. In fact, if left untreated ADHD can result in an 12.7 year decrease in life expectancy(2).
It isn't easy to receive a diagnosis for ADHD particularly when you have a GP who is not willing or has preconceived notions about the disorder. These prejudices persist despite the growing awareness of the disorder. They can stop people from receiving a correct diagnosis. It is also important to realize that the fact that you pay for healthcare, it doesn't mean they can evade the rules. next must follow NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your GP is reluctant to refer you for an ADHD assessment, you may contact a private psychiatrist who will assess your symptoms and prescribe medication if appropriate. The psychiatrist will also conduct a medical interview with you to determine whether your ADHD symptoms are affecting your life. The psychiatrist will ask you questions about your background and family mental health issues to assess the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A comprehensive ADHD report will be included in the assessment and will be directly sent to your GP. It can be used as a proof to support claims for reasonable adjustments at work or Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for students.