How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
This week, BBC's Panorama program investigated how some private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has exposed some troubling instances. But it also highlights the plight of people who are caught between a rock and a hard place.
The NHS has long waiting periods for adult ADHD assessment. Many opt to pay for a privately conducted assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of ADHD If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment will help you find the answers you require. ADHD symptoms are often mistaken for other disorders, so a correct diagnosis is vital to your wellbeing.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature are the primary symptoms of ADHD. These signs can cause issues at school, at work, and at home. These symptoms can affect relationships and emotional well-being. Private ADHD assessments can help you identify if you have ADHD and will give you the treatment you need to live your best life.
If you're looking for a private ADHD assessment it is important to choose a specialist who will be able to evaluate you as an individual. The specialist is expected to be prepared for a three-hour assessment session. The specialist will ask how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily life. They will also discuss your family history as well as any other mental health issues you might have. They may also talk to your employer or your school to gain a better understanding of your situation.
It is essential that the medical professional who is conducting your personal ADHD evaluation is a qualified experienced and skilled psychiatrist. You will receive the highest possible care. Private healthcare providers are subject to the same rules as NHS healthcare professionals, and they should follow best practice guidelines published by NICE.
It is also advisable to bring any supporting documentation along to the test. This could include psychological and medical records as well as letters from your GP, questionnaires that you have completed, or the results of the ADHD test. Your specialist will need to have these records to be able to assess your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.
You should be aware that certain doctors have preconceived notions about what a person with ADHD might appear like. This can make it difficult to determine a proper diagnosis. This is particularly true for people who are people of color, have a gender assigned at birth, or are not native English native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex disorder that can affect every aspect of a person's life. It can impact the ability to concentrate, impulsivity, as well as working memory. A private adhd assessment can provide a diagnosis, allowing a person to control their symptoms and improve their quality of life. An accurate diagnosis can help people find the appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms, lessen their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process that requires a thorough examination, medical history and questionnaires. GPs have discretion when it is time to diagnose ADHD however they have to be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales are used to assess the severity of the symptoms of a person. It is important that the healthcare professional carrying your test is skilled, knowledgeable and experience to recognize ADHD. A specialist Psychiatrist or ADHD nurse is ideal, but healthcare professionals working in an NHS clinic can still be suitable since they are subject to the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
Sadly, the stigma of mental health and specifically ADHD results in some people aren't given the treatment they require or deserve. This could be due to the fact that a GP is reluctant to refer someone to a specialist or has a preconceived notion of what ADHD appears to be. It is also difficult for adults to receive an assessment because they don't always have the typical signs of ADHD.
It is advisable to schedule an appointment at a trusted private clinic, such as Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that your child or yourself might have ADHD symptoms. They provide online assessments to diagnose a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They also offer an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to speak with your GP and describe the difficulties you're experiencing at home, work or in social settings. They should consider you a serious case and recommend you to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory Hospitals or wellbeing centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD vary from person to person however, they can involve medications or other types of therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The type of therapy you are recommended for will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing and the degree of the symptoms. It is also important to consider whether you have any other mental health issues that could be affecting your symptoms.
There are concerns that private clinics are not correctly diagnosing patients with ADHD. Panorama's investigation revealed that an undercover journalist was able make appointments online with three private clinics, and received powerful medications after unreliable virtual assessments. The undercover reporter responded to questions about his symptoms truthfully and did not disclose to the clinics he was a journalist.
It is important that your assessment is carried out by a healthcare professional who has expertise in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists as well as GPs and other healthcare professionals who have specific expertise, knowledge of experience, and training in ADHD. It is not enough to possess an authorization to practice, or to be listed on the NHS register to be considered an expert in ADHD.
During the ADHD assessment the doctor will talk about how you're feeling and what symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will also ask you about any mental health concerns and your family history. You should answer with the most truthful answers possible to these questions as they are essential in determining if you suffer from ADHD.
After your assessment Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. It will likely involve a decision regarding whether to prescribe medication and the plan for your care in the future and follow-up. You can then choose to continue your treatment as a private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) If you choose to do so.
It is important to be aware that if you have been diagnosed with ADHD it may be difficult to get the medication you need on the NHS due to the long waiting lists. The "Right to choose" scheme allows adults in England to get treatment and diagnosis on their own. This is a great option if you can't wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can aid a child or teen recognize and accept their diagnosis and make positive lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for many years and have a negative impact on their relationships or work can be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team comprised of UK based Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have extensive experience in assessing children and adults with ADHD. They offer a full ADHD assessment that includes diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE guidelines. This assessment can be paid for in three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication recommended by a clinician). Some private assessments require an GP referral letter, while others do not. Check with the provider to see what their policy is.