How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to determine ADHD. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could involve some red tape, such as the need for old school reports to be provided. However, you can bypass the waiting and get private assessments by registering directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is an assessment that is private?
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 a expert who will review your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also consider if there are other neurological or mental health issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will focus on different 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 keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not a straight straightforward one. Many people who are told that they have the condition have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity seen in children. It can be present as the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Similarly, inattentiveness can manifest as a problem staying still and being organized, or difficulty in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you decide that medication could be beneficial for your symptoms, you will need to get an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to speak to your GP and request that they refer you to psychiatrists for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you, or cannot offer you an immediate appointment, you may want to change your GP. 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 with a private psychiatrist through the NHS or independently. Some providers do not require a letter of referral from your GP but the majority of them will. Check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How can I get an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects brain processes like motivation, working memory and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can lead to issues in many areas. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and could help you determine ways to manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can assert your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you to a provider you might want to find a different GP willing to assist you.
The majority of assessments are performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level, as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires and a clinic interview 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 about your current difficulties as well as your past struggles since childhood. The healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the traits associated with ADHD, such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide examples of times when you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and suggest treatment options.
A private assessment can be beneficial if you've been having a difficult time and do not wish to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to keep in mind that a private diagnosis does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll have to discuss the issue with them If you decide to use medication, you should consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
If you have a GP in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of the providers here. Some of these providers offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process known as "Right to Choice" where you can ask your GP 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 seek out a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, since they can be difficult to find. Some clinics will insist on an GP referral before they make an appointment. 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, including Psychologists, can assist you to manage your symptoms. However they cannot provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to receive support services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A Psychiatrist who is experienced is able to identify and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether your symptoms are consistent ADHD and consider any other mental health issues that you might have. Your Psychiatrist is able to provide you with the best treatment if you are honest and forthcoming.
You will need to pay for the assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your physician. ( adult adhd assessment private 'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking of paying for a private diagnosis, we'd suggest you talk to your GP prior to booking an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing, and give their approval should they be required.
It's also worth considering joining an online support group to connect with other adults who have ADHD and share their stories and suggestions. They can be incredibly helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over assertion that private clinics are handing out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them despite the fact that the patient did not have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were not thorough and did not take into account all the symptoms or consequences of ADHD on the lives of individuals. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to receive a diagnosis and medication.
It is true that GPs will often refer you for an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will typically advise you that there is likely to be a waiting time. The waiting period varies from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and do extensive research on the company. If you choose a well-established and reputable company, you'll probably have less wait time than if you go to your GP.
During the examination an evaluator will, albeit subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will ask you to rule out other causes, such as anxiety or depression. If needed they will request supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful process, particularly for those who have more complicated family circumstances or those who have not been successful in finding their childhood school reports.
After you have been evaluated and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you'll be able to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. However, you should be aware that a majority of GPs will not sign a document referred to as the shared care agreement when you've been diagnosed privately and haven't been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors do not have the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.