How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to determine ADHD. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could be a bit complicated, such as the need for old school records to be supplied. You can get rid of the wait by scheduling a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment of ADHD is a consultation where you sit down with an expert to discuss your symptoms, and how they impact your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process will involve an organized clinical interview with an expert, and they will look at your symptoms from your childhood to adulthood. They will also examine other neurological or mental health issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Many people diagnosed with the condition have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant race. In addition, inattention can manifest as a problem staying focused and seated, or difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you decide that medication would be beneficial for your condition, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will enable you to access reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to do this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you or can't give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it could be worthwhile changing GPs - you can learn more about how to exercise your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist via the NHS or independently. Most of these providers will require the referral letter of your GP however some do not and you should be sure to inquire with the chosen provider prior to booking.
How do I obtain a private evaluation?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause problems in a variety of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A personal ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact the symptoms have on your life and identify how to manage these symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) when you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to one it could be worthwhile looking for a different GP who is willing to.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse typically conducts the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). This is due to them being the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases, the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a clinical interview in person or over video call. The typical time is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked regarding your current problems and also your history since your childhood. A healthcare expert will determine if exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD like inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to give instances of when you've shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you're suffering from a chronic illness and aren't willing to wait for an appointment from the NHS, obtaining an assessment from a private practitioner is recommended. However, it is important to remember that a private diagnosis does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. It is still necessary to discuss this with them, and if you decide to test medication, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list 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 online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choose" where you can ask your GP for a referral to any of the specialist doctors on their list - this can reduce the waiting time substantially. There are private practitioners who can diagnose quickly.
It is advisable to find a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It could take a while to find one, as they are hard to come by. Some clinics insist on an GP referral before they schedule an appointment. However this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists are able to assess your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists - can help you 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 such as Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.
A specialist Psychiatrist is able to diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also evaluate whether they are consistent ADHD and will take into consideration any other mental health issues that you might have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can provide you with the best treatment possible.
You will have to pay for the examination, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor (you'll have to be responsible for the NHS prescription fee). We suggest that you talk with your GP about an individual diagnosis prior to booking an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you are doing and give their consent should it be required.
Joining a support group is another option to meet others who have ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and motivating. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that some private clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter who was undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers, and was diagnosed by all of them with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were not thorough and didn't take into account the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't eligible for NHS assessments and must pay out-of-pocket to get an assessment or prescription.
There is no doubt that your physician will recommend one of the major private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will tell you there is a waiting period. The waiting time varies from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. It is recommended to investigate the provider thoroughly and ask friends and family members for recommendations. Picking a reputable, experienced business will most likely mean you will have less wait time than if you use your GP.
During the evaluation the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impact on your daily activities. They will want you to rule out any other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If necessary they will seek additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful process particularly for those with more complex family circumstances or those who aren't able to find their school records from childhood.
After you private adhd assessment have been diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced healthcare professional you may request disability benefits from your local authority. You should be aware that most GPs won't sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement when you were diagnosed privately and you haven't been fully titrated to the final dose of medicine. This is because doctors do not have the experience to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.