How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric evaluation is required to determine ADHD. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy process, as the old school records might need to be supplied. But, you can avoid the waiting and get a private assessment by booking directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment of ADHD is a session in which you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically requires two sessions and is more comprehensive than an NHS psychiatric evaluation. The process will involve an organized clinical interview with a specialist who will evaluate your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also look at other issues with your mental health or neurological issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, like relationships or work. They will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight forward one and many people who are told that they suffer from the disorder have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity that is common in children. It could be characterized by an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention can also manifest in a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, being organised or sitting down.
If you decide that medication might be beneficial for your symptoms, you will require a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to recommend you to a psychiatric assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you or if they are unable to provide you with an appointment within a short time, you may want to change GPs. If this is the case, it may be worth switching GPs You can find out more about how to exercise your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist directly through the NHS or independently. Most of these providers will require an appointment letter from your GP but some don't and you should make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
How do I obtain an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complex mental illness that affects the function of brain processes such as motivation, working memory and attention. It causes problems in many areas of life for adults and can be challenging to live with. A private ADHD assessment can help you understand the impact that these symptoms can affect your life, and help you manage them.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unwilling to do this then you may need to find a different GP willing to do it.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional according to NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases the ADHD assessment will involve questionnaires and a clinical interview in person or via video call. The typical time for this assessment is 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current issues and your past difficulties from childhood if you're an adult. A healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked for instances of when you've shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then employ these to determine an assessment and suggest treatments.
A private assessment can be helpful if you have been struggling for a long time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to keep in mind that a private diagnosis does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll need to discuss it with them and, if you choose to take medication, you should negotiate 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 provide online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process known as "Right to Choose" where you can ask your GP to refer you to one of the specialists on their list. This could cut down the wait time significantly. Private providers can also offer a quick diagnosis.
It is advisable to find a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It may take a while to find one, as they are not easy to come by. Some clinics insist on the GP referral before they will schedule an appointment. However, this is not 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 help you manage your symptoms, but they cannot give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to access assistance services like Disabled Students' Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work.
An expert Psychiatrist can identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be capable of providing you with the best treatment if you are honest and forthcoming.
You'll have to pay for the assessment, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to be responsible for the NHS prescription charge). If private adhd assessment cost considering paying for a private diagnosis, we would suggest you talk to your GP prior to scheduling an appointment so they know what you're doing and can give their consent, if needed.
Joining a support group is another option to meet others who have ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be very supportive, comforting, and inspiring. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit, or check out local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private clinics give unreliable diagnosis. adhd assessment private cost who was undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and did not take into consideration the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD has on people's daily lives. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who are not qualified for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pocket to get a diagnosis and medication.
There is a fact that doctors will often refer you for an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting period. This differs from provider to provider and typically is approximately six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and do thorough research about the provider. If you select a reputable and experienced company, you'll probably have a shorter waiting time than if you see your GP.
During the assessment, your psychiatrist will assess in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily activities. They will also want to rule out other causes, like depression or anxiety. If they are required, they will ask for additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a difficult procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or for those who haven't been in a position to locate their school reports from their childhood.
Once you have been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional, you are able to apply for disability assistance with your local authority. It is important to be aware, however, that most GPs won't sign a document called a shared-care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed by a private doctor and haven't been titrated fully to your final dose of medicine. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.