Dont Make This Silly Mistake Youre Using Your Private ADHD Diagnosis

How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric evaluation is required to diagnose ADHD. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since old school records may need to be submitted. However, you can skip the waiting and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a consultation in which you meet with an expert to discuss your symptoms as well as how they affect your life. It typically takes two sessions, and is more thorough than an NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The process involves an in-depth clinical interview with a specialist and they will examine your symptoms from your childhood through adulthood. They will also look at other issues with your mental health or neurological issues which could be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is important to keep in mind that a diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight up and down one. A lot of people who are told they have the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are three of the main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity can differ from boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can manifest as restlessness or a constant rush around. Inattention can also manifest in a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, being organised or sitting for long periods of time.
If you think that medication could alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will enable you to get reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to do this is to talk to your GP and request that they refer you to psychiatrists for an assessment.
You might find your GP isn't keen to refer you or can't give you an appointment in a timely manner. You may want to think about changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how you can exercise your choice.
You might also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric service, either through the NHS system or independently. Some providers may not require a letter of referral from your GP, but most will. Check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How can I get a private evaluation?
ADHD is an intricate mental disorder that affects brain functions like motivation working memory, motivation, and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact these symptoms have on your life, and determine how you can manage them.
There are many providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it might be worthwhile looking for a different GP who will.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a medical interview, either in person or over video calls. This usually takes 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked regarding your current problems as well as your past struggles since childhood. The healthcare professional will then examine whether you exhibit any of the symptoms that are characteristic of ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of times when you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional can then make use of this information to diagnose and suggest treatment options.
A private assessment may be helpful if you've been having a difficult time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. However, it is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean that you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. Read More On this page is still necessary to discuss the issue with them. If you do decide to try medication it is recommended you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
If you have a doctor in England who is willing to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment, you can find a list of providers here. Some of these companies offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to choose" procedure where you can request a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce waiting times. There are private practitioners that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's best to find a specialist psychiatrist with had experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take a while to find one since they aren't easy to come by. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter before they will see you for an examination, but this is not always required.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms but cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, like Psychologists, can help you manage your symptoms. However they cannot give a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be eligible for support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A specialist Psychiatrist is able to identify and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are a result of ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the best treatment if you are honest and forthcoming.
You will need to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it may be possible to get medication through a shared-care arrangement with your doctor. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for a private diagnosis, we'd recommend you speak with your GP before you book an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and can provide their consent should they be required.
It's also worth considering joining a support group in order to connect with others who suffer from ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and encouraging. You can find online communities on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
The recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. A reporter who was undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers, and was identified by all of them with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were not thorough and did not consider the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that patients who are not eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to receive a diagnosis and medication.
It is true that doctors will often suggest you to have an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting time. The waiting period varies from one provider to another provider and typically is about six weeks. It is advisable to research the provider carefully and ask your family and friends members for word of mouth suggestions. If you choose a well-established and reputable company, you'll probably have less wait time than if you go to your GP.
During the assessment, a psychiatrist will, in a way examine whether your ADHD symptoms cause significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will try to rule out other causes, such as thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues and will usually request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This can be a stressful time, especially for those with complicated family circumstances or who cannot find their childhood school records.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional you may request disability benefits from your local authority. You should be aware, however, that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract called a shared-care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and aren't fully titrated to the final dose of medicine. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.