Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is still largely undiagnosed and untreated, resulting in a huge cost to individuals and society. This is partially because of the attitude of gatekeepers who control the pathways to referral.
You can get a private diagnostic by utilizing the NHS "Right to Choose" scheme. This permits you to be recommended by the NHS to a reputable provider who has contracts. This can speed up the process considerably.
Waiting several times
The NHS is swamped with demand for ADHD assessments and treatments which means long waits. A charity warned that patients have to wait seven years for their first assessment. ADHD Action, a non-profit organization, warned that adults with undiagnosed ADHD are in a dangerous situation. The charity ADHD Action said that this is despite the awareness of ADHD has risen 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 waiting times is that there aren't enough NHS ADHD specialists to meet the demand. This problem is not helped by the fact that the NHS does not regularly collect collected data, making it difficult to know how many people are waiting to be assessed. Those with access to private healthcare can choose a different path by asking their doctor for an out-of-area referral or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private assessment is a 45 to 90 minute consultation with psychiatrists who inquire about your past and symptoms. The psychiatrist will suggest the best treatment or medication based upon the results. Private assessments are an alternative for those seeking an accurate, quick diagnosis. However, you should note that some providers require a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. This could affect your options if you want to enter into a shared-care arrangement with your GP. In this scenario you'll only have to pay the NHS prescription fees for your prescriptions.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be stressful, particularly if you're struggling with your symptoms. It can also be a relief. A clear diagnosis will help you make better decisions regarding your life and enhance your quality of life. If you're considering a private diagnosis, here are a few tips to help you choose the right provider.
When selecting a psychiatrist check the doctor's credentials and experience. In addition to having a medical degree, the psychiatrist should have completed specialist training in the area of mental health. It is also important to determine whether the psychiatrist is licensed to prescribe medications. Make sure that the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. The psychiatrist should also be able recognize and treat co-morbidities that are associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are doctors with medical qualifications who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. They can help with both emotional and physical issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in a variety of fields such as psychotherapy, social work and pharmacology. Some have also completed training in transcultural psychiatry and have vast experience in both adult and child psychotherapy.
You should first talk to your GP to discuss your concerns. They will be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment. You should be ready to talk about your symptoms and family history, as these can impact the diagnosis. Before referring you for evaluation, your GP might require you to fill out an ADHD screener. This could take about approximately an hour, and is usually done face-to-face. However, you can complete the questionnaire via phone or online via video.
Only a Psychiatrist, or a specialist nurse can conduct an assessment for ADHD. Only these health professionals can prescribe medications for this condition. If you'd rather not use medication, you may still see a psychologist. The typical assessment lasts 90 minutes, but you could be expected to spend longer than this because your Psychiatrist is going to be looking into your symptoms and the history.
A recent report by the BBC's Panorama program highlighted the long waits for ADHD assessments on the NHS. The programme also questioned the quality of certain private ADHD assessment services. The report stated that certain psychiatrists diagnose adults with ADHD and prescribe medication without properly assessing the signs. In some instances, these patients aren't taking their medication in the manner prescribed. This could cause serious side effects, such as insomnia or high blood pressure.
Presently, NHS patients can choose the provider they want to visit for an ADHD assessment. You can find the list of GPs who offer this service here. However this list does not contain all providers that have contracts with NHS England. You can also access private treatment via Right to Choose, although the consultation fees are not subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are many different treatment options available for adults with ADHD. The most popular is stimulant medication, however there are a variety of non-medication treatments that could be beneficial. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can help to improve ADHD symptoms by transforming negative thoughts or behavior. This type of therapy is usually a combination of individual and group sessions and it requires a positive relationship with your therapist. It is also essential to think about whether you suffer from any co-existing mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, since these can impact your ability to manage your symptoms.
It is essential to discuss with your GP about your suspicions. private adhd assessment uk should take your concerns very seriously and suggest an ADHD assessment. You may be asked to fill out some sort of questionnaire, like the DIVA test. You will meet with a psychiatric professional to discuss your concerns and determine the best treatment options.
A private ADHD assessment is a great alternative if you are unable to wait for an NHS referral. A private assessment entails an interview lasting between 45 and 90 minutes with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. The cost can range from PS500 and PS800. Some providers require a referral from a GP however, others don't.
An ADHD diagnosis can enhance your quality of life by helping you cope with your symptoms and decreasing stress levels. It also decreases the chance that you make impulsive decisions that could create problems in your work and personal relationships. Joining a support group can be beneficial for a lot of people with ADHD. These groups can provide an encouraging, empowering and supportive environment for those suffering from ADHD. You can find them online or in person.
It is crucial to understand that only a certified specialist nurse or Psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental healthcare professionals can assess ADHD but they are not able to diagnose the disorder. A Psychiatrist, specialist nurse, or other mental health professional may recommend the most appropriate treatment for ADHD. This could include medications, lifestyle modifications or psychological interventions.
Medication
As ADHD becomes more well-known, more people seek treatment for its symptoms. The NHS is unable to meet the demand. This is particularly relevant for adult ADHD assessments which can take a few weeks to complete. Fortunately, there are private clinics that provide rapid and efficient assessments for adults suffering from ADHD. These clinics can provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment, which includes the written diagnosis. They can also prescribe medication when needed.
The BBC's Panorama programme recently exposed a variety of private health clinics that were awarding inappropriate ADHD diagnoses in the UK. These clinics take advantage of the increasing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. However, this doesn't mean those suffering from ADHD should not seek medical attention. Remember that this condition is serious and can impact many aspects of your life. In fact, untreated ADHD can result in a 12.7 year reduction in life expectancy(2).
It isn't easy to receive an accurate diagnosis for ADHD particularly when you have a GP who is unwilling or has preconceived notions about the disorder. Despite the growing awareness of the disorder, these biases persist and can prevent people from receiving a proper diagnosis. Additionally, it is important to recognize that just because you are paying for healthcare doesn't mean that you can't bend the rules. Your healthcare professional should follow NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD.
If your GP is unwilling to recommend you for an ADHD assessment, then you can consult an individual psychiatrist. He will assess you and prescribe medication if needed. The psychiatrist will also conduct a clinical interview with you to determine if your ADHD symptoms are affecting your life. The psychiatrist will ask you questions regarding your past and family mental health issues to assess the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A thorough ADHD report will be included in the private assessment and will be sent directly to your GP. It could also be used as evidence to back claims for reasonable adjustments at work or Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for students.