How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
This week, the BBC's Panorama program examined how certain private clinics diagnosed adults with ADHD.
The investigation has exposed some alarming instances. But it also reveals the suffering of those who are caught between two rocks in a difficult place.
The waiting times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are lengthy. Many opt to pay for a privately-run assessment.
Signs and symptoms
A private ADHD assessment will give you the information you are looking for if you or your child is suffering from ADHD symptoms. ADHD symptoms are often misinterpreted as other disorders, and an accurate diagnosis is essential for your health.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the main symptoms of ADHD. These signs can cause problems at school, at work and in the home. These symptoms can affect relationships and emotional well-being. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine whether you suffer from ADHD and provide you with the treatment you need to live your life to the fullest.
If you're looking for a private ADHD assessment, it is essential to find one that will be able to evaluate your individual needs. The specialist is expected to be ready for a three-hour assessment session. During the examination, your doctor will be asking you to discuss how your ADHD symptoms affect your daily functioning. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and any other mental health issues you may have. They may also wish to speak to your school or employer to help you understand your situation.
It is important that the medical professional who is conducting your private ADHD assessment is a certified, experienced psychiatrist. You will receive the top possible treatment. Private healthcare providers are bound by the same rules as NHS healthcare professionals, and must follow best practice guidelines published by NICE.
It is also beneficial to bring any supporting documents along to the test. This could include medical records, psychological reports or letters from your GP or questionnaires you have completed. Your doctor must have these documents to evaluate your symptoms and suggest a course of treatment for you.
You should also be aware that medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what someone suffering from ADHD looks like. This could make it difficult for them to make an accurate diagnosis. This is particularly relevant for people of color, who were assigned a gender at birth, or who do not speak English natively.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex condition that can impact every aspect of someone's life. It can impact the ability to concentrate, impulsivity, as well as working memory. A private assessment for adhd can provide a diagnosis that allows a person to manage their symptoms and improve their lives. A precise diagnosis can help patients find the appropriate treatment to relieve symptoms, reduce their anxiety and improve their lives.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD involves an extensive medical history, questionnaires and a thorough physical examination. GPs have discretion when it comes to diagnosing ADHD however they have to take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment. The symptoms of an individual will be evaluated using clinical interviews and a number of scales that are validated. It is vital that the healthcare professional conducting your assessment has the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise to diagnose ADHD. A specialist Psychiatrist or ADHD nurse is the best choice, however healthcare professionals who are based in an NHS clinic may be suitable as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
Some people fail to get the diagnosis that they deserve or require because of the stigma surrounding mental health and ADHD. This could be due to the fact that a GP is hesitant to refer a patient or has a preconceived notion of what ADHD looks like. Adults may also have trouble finding a diagnosis, since they may not always show the typical symptoms of ADHD.
cost of private adhd assessment is advisable to schedule an appointment at a trusted private clinic, such as Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that your child or you might have ADHD symptoms. They offer online assessments to diagnose a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They can also offer an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to talk with your GP and explain the difficulties you are having at home, work or in social settings. They should be able to take you seriously and suggest you see an ADHD specialist in one of the Priory Hospitals or Wellbeing Centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD differ from individual to individual, but can include medication or different types of therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The type of therapy recommended will depend on your symptoms and the severity. It is also important to consider whether you have any other mental health issues that may influence your symptoms.
There are fears that certain private clinics may be misdiagnosing patients with ADHD. This was highlighted in an Panorama investigation that saw an undercover journalist book online appointments with three different private clinics and receive powerful drugs after unreliable virtual assessments. The journalist who was undercover answered questions honestly about his symptoms however, he didn't inform the clinics that he was a reporter.
It is important that your assessment is performed by a healthcare professional who has expertise in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists as well as GPs and other healthcare professionals who have specific expertise, knowledge and experience in ADHD. It is not enough to possess an official license to practice or to be registered on the NHS register to be regarded as an expert in ADHD.
During the ADHD assessment process your doctor will go through how you are feeling and the symptoms you are experiencing. They will also inquire about your family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you may have. It is essential to provide the most complete answers to these questions, as they are key to determining whether or not you suffer from ADHD.
After your evaluation Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. It will likely involve a decision on whether or not to treat you with medication and a plan of care and follow-up. You can choose to continue your treatment as a private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) if you wish to do so.
You should be aware that If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to get the medication you require on the NHS due to long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults living in England to access private diagnosis and treatment, and it is recommended if you're struggling to wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can help a teenager or child recognize and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle changes to improve their lives. Adults who have been struggling with ADHD symptoms for a long time and are affecting their relationships or work may be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team of UK based Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists with extensive experience assessing children and adults with ADHD. They offer a full ADHD assessment with diagnosis and treatment recommendations that are in line with NICE guidelines. This assessment can be paid for in three or five installments of PS195 (excluding any medication recommended by the clinician). Certain private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Check with your chosen provider for their policies.