How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama programme this week has looked into the way that private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has revealed some worrying instances. But it also highlights the suffering of those who are caught between the rock and the hard place.
The wait times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are long. Many opt to pay for an assessment by a private company.
Symptoms
A private ADHD assessment will help you find the answers you're looking for whether you or your child are suffering from ADHD symptoms. ADHD symptoms are often confused with other disorders, and a correct diagnosis is vital for your health.
Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are the main symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can cause issues at school, working and at home. The emotional well-being and relationships can be affected by symptoms. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine whether you suffer from ADHD and will give you the treatment you require to live your best life.
If you're looking for an individual ADHD assessment it is important to choose a specialist who will be able to evaluate your personal needs. The specialist is expected to be ready for a three-hour assessment session. The specialist will inquire about how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily functioning. They will also talk about your family history and any other mental health issues you might have. They might also talk to your employer or your school to gain a better understanding of your situation.
It is crucial to make sure the healthcare professional conducting your personal ADHD assessment is a trained and experienced psychiatrist. You will receive the best possible care. The same rules apply to private health providers as they apply to NHS healthcare professionals. They should also adhere to the guidelines for best practice that are which are outlined in NICE.
It is also beneficial to bring any supporting documentation along to the assessment. This could include your medical and psychological records as well as letters from your GP, questionnaires that you have completed, or the results of the ADHD test. This information is required by your doctor to determine your symptoms and determine the best treatment plan.
You should be aware that a few doctors have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD might appear like. This can make it difficult to determine the correct diagnosis. This is particularly relevant for people of color, who were assigned a gender at birth, or those who don't speak English natively.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complicated disorder that can impact every aspect of the life of a person. It affects how our brains function, which can affect concentration, impulsivity, and working memory. A private adhd assessment can help identify the cause and allow the patient to take control of their symptoms and live better lives. A clear diagnosis can help them discover a form of treatment which can ease symptoms, decrease anxiety and improve their quality of life.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD requires a thorough medical history, questionnaires and an extensive physical exam. The GP has discretion when it regards diagnosing ADHD but they will need to consider your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment. A person's symptoms will be assessed using clinical interviews and a number of scales for rating that have been validated. It is crucial that the healthcare professional who conducts your evaluation has the skills, knowledge, and expertise to recognize ADHD. A Psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse is ideal, but healthcare professionals who are based in an NHS clinic may be a good choice since they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
Sadly, the stigma of mental health, and especially ADHD can mean that a few sufferers are not given the diagnosis they need or are entitled to. This could be because the GP is reluctant to refer a patient or has a preconceived idea of what ADHD is like. It is also difficult for adults to get a diagnosis because they may not exhibit the typical symptoms of ADHD.
It is worth arranging an appointment at a trusted private clinic, such as Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that your child or you may have ADHD symptoms. They offer online assessments to identify a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They can also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to talk to your GP about the difficulties that you are experiencing at home, at work, or in social situations. They should take you seriously and recommend you to an ADHD specialist in one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centers.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD may differ based on the individual. They could include medication or other types of therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The type of therapy recommended will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity. It is also crucial to think about whether you have any other mental health problems which could affect your symptoms, and to take these into account when deciding on the most effective course of treatment.
Some private clinics may be misdiagnosing ADHD. Panorama's investigation found that an undercover journalist was able to make appointments online at three private clinics and receive effective medication after a lack of trust in the assessments online. The undercover reporter answered questions about his symptoms truthfully however, he did not inform the clinics that he was a journalist.
It is essential to have your assessment conducted by an expert in healthcare who is an expert in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists, but also GPs and other healthcare professionals who have specific expertise, knowledge and experience in ADHD. To be deemed an ADHD specialist, it is not enough to hold an authorization to practice or to be on the NHS Register.
During the ADHD assessment, your doctor will talk about how you feel and what symptoms you are experiencing. They will also inquire about your family history of ADHD as well as any other mental health issues you may have. You must answer with the most truthful answers possible to these questions because they are crucial in determining if you have ADHD.
Once your assessment is complete the doctor will discuss with you the next steps. This will likely involve a decision regarding whether to prescribe medication and a plan for your future treatment and follow-up. You may then decide to continue to receive treatment as a private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) should you wish to do this.
It is important to keep in mind that if you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be difficult to access the medication you require from the NHS because of the long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults in England to access private diagnosis and treatment, and is highly recommended if you're having trouble waiting for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can aid a child or teen recognize and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle adjustments to improve their lives. A specialist ADHD assessment is also beneficial for adults who have struggled with the symptoms for years and have been affecting their relationships or work.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team consisting of UK located Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have years of experience assessing children and adults with ADHD. They provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment, including diagnosis and treatment recommendations that are in line with NICE guidelines. The assessment can be paid for in three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication prescribed by clinicians). Some private assessments require a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Check with the provider to see what their policy is.