How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation will need to take place. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can be a bit complicated for example, the need for old school records to be submitted. You can cut down on the waiting time by scheduling a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
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 usually lasts two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The process involves a structured interview with a expert who will review your symptoms from childhood until adulthood. They will also determine if there are other disorders of the brain or mental issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis is not always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is often different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It can manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant flurry of activity. Inattention can also manifest in a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, organising or sitting for long periods of time.
If you decide that medication could be beneficial for your condition, you will require an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will enable you to access reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to do this is to speak to your GP and request that they refer you to psychiatrists for an assessment.
You might find your GP doesn't want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. If private adhd assessment is the case, it might be worthwhile to switch GPs and you can find out more about how to make use of your right to choose on the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner, either through the NHS system or on your own. Most of these providers will require the referral letter of your GP however some do not however, so make sure to check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How do I get an assessment from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain functions like motivation, working memory, and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be difficult to manage. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact these symptoms have on your life and determine how you can manage these symptoms.
There are several providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to make this request you might want to find another GP willing to help.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse will usually conduct the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a consultation with a doctor in person or via video conference. This usually takes 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current issues as well as your previous struggles since childhood if you are an adult. A healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. You will be asked for instances where you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will employ these to determine an assessment and recommend treatments.
A private assessment may be helpful if you have been struggling for a long time and do not want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to note that an assessment conducted privately does not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You'll need to discuss it with them If you decide to take medication, you should seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your doctor in England will refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a number of ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a "Right to choose" process that allows you to request a referral from one of the specialists on their list. This will significantly cut down on the time it takes to wait. There are private providers who can offer a diagnosis quickly.
It is recommended to find an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one, as they are not easily accessible. Some clinics require a GP recommendation before they schedule an appointment. However, this is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to be able to access support services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments at work.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to recognize and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you might have. It is important to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist so they can give you the best possible treatment.
You will have to pay for the assessment however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll still have to pay the NHS prescription charge). We suggest speaking with your GP regarding the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you're doing and give their consent should it be required.
Joining a support group is another option to meet others who have ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be very 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?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics provide a faulty diagnosis. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he did not have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and did not consider the full range of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. It also raised concerns that some patients who are not eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is no doubt that your GP will recommend you to one of the leading private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will tell you that there could be a waiting time. The time frame for waiting is different from one company to the next and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and do extensive research on the company. If you select a reputable and experienced company you'll likely have an easier time waiting than if you visit your GP.
During the evaluation the psychiatrist will determine, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will also want to rule out any other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If necessary, they will ask for supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful time especially for those who have complicated family circumstances or who cannot find their childhood school records.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an experienced healthcare professional, you can apply for disability benefits through your local authority. However, you must be aware that most GPs will not sign a document referred to as an agreement for shared care when you've been diagnosed privately and haven't had a complete titration into your final dose of medication. This is due to the fact that GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.