Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is still underdiagnosed and untreated. This results in a high cost for society and individuals. This is largely because of the attitude of gatekeepers who control the pathways to referral.
It is possible to get an individual diagnosis through the NHS "Right to Choose" scheme which allows you to be referred to a certified provider who has a contract with the NHS. This could speed the process up.
Waiting times
The NHS is swamped with demand for ADHD assessments and treatment, leading to long waits. Some patients are waiting for seven years to get their first assessment the charity has warned. This puts those who aren't diagnosed with ADHD in a dangerous situation, according to the charity, ADHD Action. The charity ADHD Action said that this is despite the fact the awareness of ADHD has increased due to the presence of celebrities such as Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
One of the reasons behind the long wait times is the fact that there aren't enough NHS ADHD specialists to meet demand. This is made more difficult by the fact that the NHS doesn't collect regularly collected data which makes it difficult to determine how many people are waiting to be assessed. Patients who have access to private healthcare may opt for a different path, by asking their doctor to refer them outside of their area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute meeting with psychiatrists who will inquire about your medical history and symptoms. The psychiatrist will then recommend a treatment or medication based upon the results. Private assessments are a good option for people who want a fast, accurate diagnosis. Be aware that some providers will require a referral from your GP however, others don't. This could impact your options should you choose to sign a shared-care arrangement with your GP. In this case you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription costs for your prescriptions.
It can be a stressful experience to receive an ADHD diagnosis, especially when your symptoms are causing stress. It can also be a source of relief. Having a clear diagnosis will help you make better decisions regarding your life and enhance your quality of life. Here are some suggestions to find the right doctor if you're considering a privately-diagnosed patient.
Examine the credentials and experience of a psychiatrist prior to selecting one. The psychiatrist should not just have a medical degree but also have completed specialized training within the field of mental health. You should also determine whether the psychiatrist is licensed to prescribe medications. Make sure that the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. In addition to this the psychiatrist should also be able identify and address any co-morbidities associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists have medical degrees and are specialists in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They can aid with physical and emotional issues, such as ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in various areas, such as psychotherapy, social service and the science of pharmacology. Some have also trained in transcultural psychiatry. They have vast experience in both child and adult psychotherapy.
If you're interested in being diagnosed with ADHD, you should start by talking to your GP about your concerns. They will be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment. You should be prepared to speak about your symptoms and family history, since these can impact on the diagnosis. Before referring you to an evaluation, your doctor may ask you to complete an ADHD screening questionnaire. This could take about up to an hour and is usually done face-to-face. However, you can complete the questionnaire over the phone or via online video.
An assessment for ADHD can only be conducted by a Psychiatrist or specialist nurse. Only these health professionals can prescribe medication for this condition. If you'd prefer not to take medication, you may see psychologists for an evaluation. The evaluation lasts for 90 minutes, but the Psychiatrist you see may take longer in the process as they explore your symptoms as well as past.
BBC's Panorama programme recently highlighted the long wait times for ADHD assessments in the NHS. The program also raised questions about some private ADHD assessment services. The report alleged that some psychiatrists are diagnosing adults with ADHD and prescribing drugs to them without evaluating their symptoms. In some cases, patients aren't taking the medication in the manner prescribed. This could cause serious side effects, such as insomnia or high blood pressure.
Currently, NHS patients can choose the GP they wish to visit for an ADHD evaluation. Here is a list of GPs who offer this service. The list does not include all providers that have a contract with NHS England. Right to Choose allows private adhd assessment for adults to access private treatment, however, the consultation fee will not be subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are a variety of treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. The most popular is stimulant medication, however there are a variety of non-medication treatments that can be helpful. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD by changing negative thoughts and behaviors. This type of therapy typically involves a combination of individual and group sessions, and requires a strong relationship with your counselor. It is also important to determine if you have any co-existing mental health issues such as anxiety or depression because they could affect your ability to manage your symptoms.
It is essential to discuss with your GP regarding your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you to an ADHD evaluation. You may be asked for an assessment such as the DIVA test. You will then meet with a psychiatrist to discuss your issues and discover the treatment options available.
If you can't wait for a referral from the NHS or the NHS, an individual ADHD assessment might be able to help. A private assessment involves an interview lasting between 45 and 90 minutes with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. It will cost between PS500 to 800. Some providers require the referral of a GP however, others don't.
An ADHD diagnosis can enhance your quality of life by helping you deal with your symptoms and reducing stress levels. It can also reduce the likelihood that you will make impulsive decisions that could create problems in your work and personal relationships. Many people with ADHD also benefit from joining a support group. It can be a calming and empowering environment for people who suffer from ADHD, and you can learn about these groups online or visiting in person.
It is essential to know that only a qualified specialist nurse or psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health professionals can conduct an ADHD assessment, but they cannot give a definitive diagnosis of the disorder. A specialist nurse, Psychiatrist, or other mental health professional can recommend the best treatment for ADHD. This could include medication, lifestyle changes, or psychological intervention.
Medication
With the growing awareness of ADHD increasing numbers of people are seeking treatment for their symptoms. In the process, the NHS is struggling to keep up with demand. This is especially relevant for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. Fortunately, there are private clinics that provide rapid and efficient assessments for adults suffering from ADHD. These clinics offer a thorough ADHD evaluation, including a written diagnoses. They will also prescribe medications when needed.
BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a number private health clinics in the UK that were giving inappropriate ADHD diagnoses. These clinics take advantage of the growing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. But this does not mean that people suffering from ADHD should stop seeking medical assistance. It is important to remember that the condition is severe and affects a variety of areas of our lives. Untreated ADHD can decrease life expectancy by 12.7 years(2).
It is often difficult to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, especially if you have a GP who is unwilling or has preconceived beliefs about the disorder. Despite the growing awareness about the disorder, these prejudices remain and could hinder people from receiving a proper diagnosis. It is also important to recognize that just because you are paying for healthcare does not allow you to stray from the rules. Your healthcare professional should follow NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your doctor is unwilling to recommend you for an ADHD assessment, then you can consult an individual psychiatrist. He will assess you and prescribe medication if necessary. The psychiatrist will also conduct an interview to determine if your ADHD symptoms affect negatively your life. The psychiatrist will inquire about your family history as well as your personal history to determine the degree of your ADHD.
The private assessment will usually include a complete ADHD report that can be sent to your GP. It can be used to justify claims for reasonable accommodations at work or Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).