Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is a condition that is not well-known, and undertreated. This comes at a significant cost for society and individuals. This is partly because of the attitude of gatekeepers who manage referral pathways.
You can get a private diagnostic through the NHS "Right To Choose" scheme. This permits you to be recommended by the NHS to a qualified provider with contracts. This can speed up the process considerably.
Waiting at various times
The NHS is flooded with requests for ADHD assessments and treatment which has led to long wait times. A charity warned that some patients have to wait seven years for their first assessment. This is leaving adults who have undiagnosed ADHD in a precarious situation, according to the charity, ADHD Action. The charity ADHD Action said that this is despite the fact that the awareness of ADHD has risen, thanks to celebrities like Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
The NHS doesn't have enough ADHD specialists to meet the demand. This is made more difficult by the fact that the NHS does not collect routinely collected data, making it difficult to determine the number of people waiting for an assessment. Those with access to private health care can opt for a different path, by asking their GP to refer them outside of their area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute appointment with a psychiatrist who will inquire about your medical history and symptoms. The psychiatrist will then recommend a treatment or medication based on the findings. Private assessments are a good option for those who want an accurate, quick diagnosis. You should be aware that certain providers will require a GP's referral however, others don't. This could impact your options if you want to enter into a shared-care arrangement with your GP. In this case you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription charges for your medications.
It can be stressful to receive an ADHD diagnosis, particularly if your symptoms are causing stress. It can also be a source of relief. Having a clear diagnosis can aid you in making better decisions regarding your life and enhance your quality of life. If you're considering a personal diagnosis, here are a few suggestions to help you locate the right healthcare provider.
When selecting a psychiatrist verify the credentials of the doctor and experience. In addition to an medical degree, the psychiatrist should have completed specialist training in the area of mental health. You should also find out whether the psychiatrist is certified to prescribe medications. Be sure that the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. Additionally the psychiatrist should also be able identify and treat any co-morbidities connected to ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors and are specialists in diagnosing and treating mental health problems. They can assist with physical and emotional issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists have expertise in a variety of areas that include psychotherapy social work, pharmacology and psychotherapy. They also have training in transcultural psychiatry and have vast experience in both child and adult psychotherapy.
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD It is best to begin with 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 a specialist for assessment, your GP may require you to fill out an ADHD screener. This can take approximately an hour, and is usually done face-to-face. However you can fill out the questionnaire by phone or online video.
A test for ADHD can only be conducted by a specialist Psychiatrist or nurse. This is because only these health professionals can prescribe medications for the condition. However, if you would prefer not to take medication, you can visit a psychologist to conduct an assessment. The evaluation lasts for 90 minutes but the Psychiatrist you see may take longer, as they look into your symptoms and past.
BBC's Panorama program recently highlighted the long waiting times for ADHD assessments within the NHS. The programme also questioned the quality of certain private ADHD assessment services. The report claimed that certain psychiatrists are diagnosing adult with ADHD and prescribing drugs to them without properly assessing the severity of their symptoms. In some instances patients fail to take the medication as prescribed. This can lead to serious adverse effects, including insomnia and high blood pressure.
Presently the NHS allows patients to select which provider they go to for an ADHD assessment. You can find a list of GPs who offer this service here. The list is not complete and does not include all providers that have a contract with NHS England. You can also access private treatment via Right to Choose, although the consultation fees aren't paid for by the NHS.
CBT therapy
There are many different treatment options available for adults suffering from ADHD. There are a myriad of treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. The most popular is stimulant medication. However there are other non-medicament treatments that can be beneficial. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms by transforming negative thoughts or behaviours. This type of therapy usually involves a combination of sessions with a group or individual, and requires a strong relationship with your counselor. My Web Page should also think about whether you have mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, which could hinder your ability to manage your symptoms.
It is important that you discuss with your GP regarding your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you for 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 problems and discover the treatment options available.
A private ADHD assessment is a great alternative if you are unable to wait for an NHS referral. A private assessment will include a 45- to 90-minute interview with a psychiatrist who is specially trained to diagnose adult ADHD. It will cost between PS500 to 800. Some providers require an appointment with a GP however, others don't.
A ADHD diagnosis can improve your quality of life by helping you deal with your symptoms and reduce stress levels. It can also reduce the chance that you make impulsive decisions that could result in problems for your career and personal relationships. Joining a support group is also beneficial to many adults with ADHD. This can be a welcoming and encouraging space for those with ADHD, and you can find out about these groups online or in person.
It is crucial to remember that only a qualified Psychiatrist or specialist nurse can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health professionals can conduct an ADHD assessment however they are not able to offer a formal diagnosis of the disorder. A Psychiatrist or specialist nurse can recommend the most appropriate treatment for ADHD which could include medication, lifestyle changes or psychological interventions.
Medication
With the growing awareness of ADHD increasing numbers of people are seeking treatment for their symptoms. The NHS is struggling to meet the demand. This is particularly relevant for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. Private clinics are able to provide adults with ADHD with quick and easy assessments. These clinics offer a complete ADHD evaluation, including a written diagnosis. They will also prescribe medication if necessary.
BBC's Panorama program recently exposed a number private health clinics in the UK which were offering erroneous ADHD diagnoses. These clinics profit from the increased demand for ADHD diagnoses and treatments. But this doesn't mean that those with ADHD should stop seeking medical assistance. Remember that this condition can be very serious and can affect many aspects of your life. If left untreated, ADHD can reduce the lifespan by 12.7 years(2).
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy particularly if your GP refuses to refer you to a specialist or has preconceived notions of what the disorder is. These stereotypes are still prevalent despite the increased awareness of the disorder. They can prevent people from getting a proper diagnosis. Moreover, it is important to understand that just because you're paying for healthcare does not mean that you can't bend the rules. Your healthcare professional should follow NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your doctor is unwilling to refer you for an ADHD assessment, you may contact an individual psychiatrist who will assess your condition and prescribe medication, if necessary. The psychiatrist will also conduct a clinical interview with you to determine whether your ADHD symptoms are affecting your life. The psychiatrist will ask you questions about your history and family mental health issues to assess the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A complete ADHD report will be included in the assessment and can be sent directly to your GP. It could be used to support claims for reasonable accommodations at work or Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).