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ADHD Assessment in the UK A thorough ADHD assessment is generally a fairly comprehensive procedure. A psychiatrist will evaluate whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and rule out other illnesses like thyroid or depression. They might also request older school reports or other supporting evidence. It is crucial that the person assessing you is an ADHD expert. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well. Waiting several times In the UK adults who require an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years for an appointment with a psychiatrist. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognised as a serious mental health issue and that it has significant effects on people's lives. In some areas waiting times can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent actions to improve the situation. The problem is being amplified by the increasing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with the demand and many patients decide to seek treatment from private providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to opt for private health care from any provider. Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The service has seen a dramatic increase in the number of adults seeking an assessment, and exceeds its capacity at present. Those who choose to go the private route are generally more successful, since private psychiatrists are used to dealing with adults and will be more knowledgeable about the specifics of the condition. They are also more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety that are frequently associated in ADHD. Many people are concerned about the accuracy of private assessments and the potential for them to overdiagnose a disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following due process. Some have even accused the program of inciting stereotypes and stigmatizing people who suffer from ADHD. The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this issue and highlighting the adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some of those who need assistance are required to seek it privately and the NHS needs to work out ways to address the issue. In the meantime, if you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try a free screening with an organization, or pay for an assessment from private psychiatrists. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but they do not come with a prescription. Second opinion If you're struggling with symptoms of ADHD, it is important to be diagnosed. A proper diagnosis will assist you in managing your symptoms and prescribe medications. You may be referred to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are many private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration treatments. These clinics are typically adept with the various types of adults with ADHD as well as both genders. They can also test for co-morbidities, such as anxiety and depression. Private ADHD assessments can be costly however, they are generally much quicker than NHS waiting times. Typically, you will pay for the initial assessment and then be able to schedule follow-up appointments if needed. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be performed in a professional manner by nurses who are trained and have a special interest ADHD. The initial appointment will typically involve clinical interviews and rating scales. You will also be asked to answer questionnaires, and you could be referred to further tests like an MRI or EEG. A private clinic will cost you between PS500 to PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The price includes assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments provide titration that is separate from diagnosis and can be cheaper. The process of titration takes longer and requires appointments. The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances in which patients received an assessment of ADHD, which was later withdrawn. This is a problem since it can be extremely stressful for people to have their symptoms wrongly identified, and some of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects. In Scotland, an ADHD assessment costs PS1,335 which includes the initial assessment and the adjustment. The majority of health insurance companies cover these assessments however it is worthwhile to inquire with your insurance company to determine if your policy will cover it. Referral to specialist clinics If your GP refers to a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosing. They will also check for any co-morbidities (other mental health issues) that may be present. They are typically depression and anxiety. The doctor will go over with you the treatment options, including medication if necessary. During the examination you will be asked questions about your family background as well as current problems at home and work. They will also ask you about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview. You should bring an experienced person or relative along to provide additional information. The test will typically take a few sessions to establish the diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full examination, while others only look for specific symptoms. The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter on the show was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he didn't suffer from ADHD. adhd assessment private claimed that the story was an instance of “over-diagnosing” by private firms, however doctors can only refer patients for further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines. Many doctors are reluctant to sign a shared care agreement with the NHS as it is the only way they can transfer their patient's care to the service after an individual diagnosis. This is because they feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medications to their patients, which can make it difficult for patients to receive the treatment they need. If your GP hasn't yet referred you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, ask them to do so. You can determine the estimated wait time by calling your local mental health service, or by using the Right To Choose website. The site lets you choose an online ADHD assessment service, which will be offered by the NHS. Confirmation of diagnosis Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can be life changing. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better as well as help them and their friends and family better help them. Additionally, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. It's not always easy to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Especially in the UK where patients are waiting for long periods for an assessment from the NHS. This can be frustrating for those who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD. If you are unable to wait, you can refer yourself to psychiatrists who specialize in private assessment. This will save you time and also a visit to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take months, but it will give you an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to ensure that the person conducting the test is a psychiatrist or psychologist, as these are the only healthcare professionals competent to assess ADHD in the UK. A private evaluation could involve an interview with psychiatrists. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, your childhood history and other factors. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your current challenges at work, in school, or in relationships. The doctor will also talk about other signs that might be indicative of ADHD. This will produce a comprehensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. They will also recommend medications if they are needed. They can also assist you to access other forms of support, such as mentoring and study skills support. They can also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university. While it is not ideal to take short cuts, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people attempt to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with lack of medical expertise. These methods are not recommended, but there's no reason why those suffering from ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment when they can afford it.