How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama show this week looked into the way that private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has highlighted some alarming cases. But it also reveals the suffering of those who are stuck between a rock and a hard place.
The waiting times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are lengthy. Many choose to pay for a privately-run assessment.
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 can be misinterpreted as signs of other disorders. A correct diagnosis is crucial for your health.
The main symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. These signs can cause issues at school, working and at home. These symptoms can affect relationships and emotional well-being. Private ADHD assessments can help you understand whether you suffer from ADHD and provide the treatment you require to live your life to the fullest.
If you are looking to obtain an individual ADHD assessment it is important to find one that will be able to evaluate you as an individual. The specialist must be prepared for a three-hour evaluation session. During the assessment your specialist will ask how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily life. They will also talk about your family history as well as any other mental health issues you might have. They might also want to discuss your situation with your school or employer to help you understand your situation.
It is important that the healthcare professional conducting your private ADHD evaluation is a qualified experienced psychiatrist. This will ensure that you receive the best quality of treatment. The same rules apply to private healthcare providers just as they apply to NHS healthcare professionals. They must also adhere to the guidelines for best practice that are published in NICE.
Additionally, it's beneficial to bring any additional information with you when you attend the assessment. This could include medical records, psychological reports or letters from your GP or questionnaires you've completed. Your doctor must have this information in order to assess your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.
It is important to be aware that some doctors have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD might look like. This can make it difficult to determine the correct diagnosis. This is especially the case for those who are a person of colour, gender assigned at birth or not native English native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complicated disorder that affects every aspect of a person's life. It affects how our brains function which can impact concentration, impulsivity and working memory. A personal adhd test can give a diagnosis and help a person manage their symptoms and live better lives. Finding a reliable diagnosis can allow them to find a form of treatment which will ease symptoms, reduce anxiety and improve their quality of life.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process that involves a thorough examination of medical history, questionnaires and a thorough examination. Doctors have discretion when comes to diagnosing ADHD but they will need to be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment. A person's symptoms will be evaluated using clinical interviews and a number of scales for rating that have been validated. It is essential that the healthcare professional conducting your test has the 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 can still be suitable since they are controlled by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
Unfortunately, some people don't get the diagnosis that they require or deserve because of the stigma that surrounds mental health and ADHD. This can be due to the fact that an GP might be unwilling to refer them, or because of an assumption about what it is like to be diagnosed with ADHD. It can also be difficult for adults to receive an assessment because they don't always have the typical signs 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 might have ADHD symptoms. They provide online assessments for a range of neurodevelopmental issues and can also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. In the beginning, you should talk with your GP about the issues you encounter at home, at work or in social situations. They should be attentive to your concerns and make arrangements for you to be directed to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD vary from person to person however, they can involve medication or different types of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The type of treatment suggested will depend on the severity and symptom. It is also important to consider whether you have any other mental health issues that may influence your symptoms.
There are concerns that some private clinics are misdiagnosing people with ADHD. This was exposed in an Panorama investigation that found an undercover journalist schedule appointments online at three different private clinics and receive powerful medications following unreliable assessments via virtual. The undercover journalist was able to answer questions with honesty about his symptoms but did not inform the clinics that he was a reporter.
It is essential that your evaluation is conducted by a healthcare specialist who has experience in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists as well as GPs and other healthcare professionals who have specific skills, knowledge of experience, and training in ADHD. To be considered an ADHD specialist, it is not enough to have a license to practice or be listed on the NHS Register.
During private adhd assessment adults will talk through how you are feeling and the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will also inquire with you about any mental health concerns and your family history. You must give your best answers to these questions since they are essential in determining if you have ADHD.
After your evaluation is completed the doctor will talk to you about the next steps. It will likely include a decision on whether or not to prescribe medication and an action plan for your future treatment and follow-up. You can choose to continue to receive treatment as an individual patient or back to the NHS (known as shared care) should you wish to do so.
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 allows adults in England to receive a private diagnosis and treatment. This is a good option if you can't wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can aid a child or teen to accept and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle adjustments to improve their lives. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for a long time and are affecting their relationships or work could be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions is a multidisciplinary team that includes Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists based in the UK with extensive experience in assessing both adults and children who suffer from ADHD. They offer a comprehensive ADHD assessment that includes diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE Guidelines. The assessment can be paid in three or five payments at PS195 (excluding medications prescribed by clinicians). Some private assessments do require a referral from a doctor, while others don't. Check with the provider to determine their policy is.