How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. You can avoid the wait by scheduling a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert who will discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts for two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The procedure involves a structured interview with an expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also look into whether there are other neurological or mental health issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will concentrate on various areas of functioning, like relationships or work, and will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis isn't always simple. Many people diagnosed with the disorder have an undiagnosed diagnosis. It is essential to keep in mind that the three primary symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. In adults, hyperactivity typically looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It could be characterized by restlessness or constantly rushing around. Inattention can also manifest in a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, staying organized or sitting still.
If you believe that medication can alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will permit you to access reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best method to do this is to speak to your GP and ask them to refer you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.
You may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile changing GPs and you can find more information about how to exercise your right to choose the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist directly, either through the NHS or independently. A majority of these doctors will require the referral letter of your GP but some don't and you should be sure to inquire with the chosen provider before booking.
How do I obtain an evaluation from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your daily life and be helpful in determining ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unwilling to do this then you may need to find a different GP willing to do it.
The majority of assessments are performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level, as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In private adhd assessments of cases an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview either in person or via video conference. The typical time is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked questions about your current issues as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare professional will then examine whether you exhibit any of the characteristics that are associated with ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide examples of instances where you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will utilize this information to determine the cause and recommend treatments.
A private evaluation can be helpful if you've been struggling for a long period of time and do not wish to wait for an NHS referral. However, it is important to keep in mind that a private diagnosis does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll 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 can find a list here of providers if your doctor in England is willing to recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS provides a "Right to choose" process that allows you to ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also provide an immediate diagnosis.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist with expertise in adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one, as they are not easily accessible. Some clinics insist on the GP referral before they will make an appointment. However, this is not always required.
Psychiatrists can provide an assessment of your symptoms, however, they are unable to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can help you manage symptoms. However they cannot 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 with expertise can determine and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are a result of ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues you might have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can offer you the most effective treatment.
You'll need to pay for the examination however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP (you'll still have to pay the NHS prescription cost). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP prior to booking an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
It is also worthwhile to consider joining a support group in order to meet other adults who have ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be incredibly helpful, encouraging and reassuring. You can find online spaces through Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
The recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics offer a false diagnosis. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them despite the fact that he did not have ADHD. The report suggested that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not consider all the symptoms or the consequences of ADHD on the lives of individuals. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or a medication.
It is true that GPs may refer you for an ADHD assessment through one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will typically advise you that there will likely be a waiting period. The waiting period differs from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and then do a extensive research on the company. Choosing an experienced and well-established firm will likely mean that you will have an easier time waiting than if you choose to go through your GP.
During the assessment, a psychiatrist will, somewhat subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, like depression or anxiety. If they are required, they will ask for additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful procedure, especially for those with 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 health professional you will be eligible to apply for disability support at your local authority. Be aware that most GPs will not sign a document called a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed privately and haven't been titrated fully to the final dose of medication. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.