How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to determine ADHD. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy process, as old school records may need to be supplied. You can cut down on the waiting time by booking an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly with an online ADHD center.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The process involves a structured interview with a expert who will look at your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also look into whether there are any other mental health conditions or neurological issues that may cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy up and down one. A lot of people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. It is crucial to remember that the three main symptoms are inattentiveness, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. In adults, hyperactivity usually is not as boisterous hyperactivity that is common in children, and may be characterized by an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, being organised or sitting still.
If you believe that medication can aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will allow you to apply for reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. The best way to do this is to speak with your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
You may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. You may want to think about changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how to exercise your choice.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider via the NHS system or on your own. The majority of these providers require the referral letter of your GP however some do not, so be sure to inquire with the chosen provider before booking.
How do I get an assessment in private?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects the function of brain processes like motivation, working memory and attention. It can cause issues in a variety of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and could be helpful in determining how they could be managed.
There are many providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choice (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do this you might want to find a different GP willing to assist you.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse typically conducts the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview, either in-person or via video call. It will typically last 45 to 90 minutes.
private adult adhd assessment will be asked about your current issues and any previous issues you have had in your early years if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will then consider whether you have any of the traits that are characteristic of ADHD - inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide instances of when you've demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will utilize this information to determine the cause and suggest treatments.
If you're struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for an appointment with the NHS seeking a private assessment may be recommended. It is important to remember that a private assessment does not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You'll still need to discuss the issue with them. If you decide to try medications it is recommended that 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 the providers here. Some of these providers offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several methods to receive an ADHD evaluation. The NHS offers a procedure called "Right to Choose" where you can ask your doctor for a referral to one of the specialists that are on their list. This will reduce the time to wait considerably. There are private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's recommended to seek out a specialist psychiatrist with expertise in adult ADHD. It may take some time to find one, as they are difficult to come by. Some will insist that you have a GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists can offer an assessment of your symptoms but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they cannot give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD which is required to access assistance services like Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
A Psychiatrist who is an expert will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be in a position to give you the most effective treatment if you're honest and forthcoming.
You'll need to pay for the assessment. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to get medication through a shared-care arrangement with your doctor. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking about paying for an private diagnosis, we would recommend you speak with your GP before you book an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and give their consent, if needed.
Joining a support group can be another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring, and inspiring. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over claims that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed 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 some patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pocket to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is no doubt that your physician will refer you to one of the major private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) however, they will inform you that there is a waiting time. This varies from provider to provider, but is typically around six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. If you choose a well-established and reputable company you'll likely experience a shorter waiting time than if you visit your GP.
During the evaluation, your psychiatrist will assess the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will want to rule out other causes such as depression, anxiety or thyroid problems and will typically request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This can be a difficult procedure, especially for those with more complicated family circumstances or for those who have not been able to find their school reports from their childhood.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional you may request disability benefits from your local authority. Be aware, however, that the majority of GPs will not sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and aren't fully titrated to the final dose of medicine. This is due to the fact that doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.