How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
A psychiatric examination is required to diagnose ADHD. This will be done by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy process, as old school records may need to be supplied. However, you can bypass the waiting and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a meeting with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts for two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS psychiatric assessment. The procedure involves a structured interview with a expert who will review 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 inquire about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not an easy straightforward one. Many people who are told that they suffer from the disorder have a multi-faceted diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is usually different from the boisterous hyperactivity observed in children. It could manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant flurry of activity. Inattention can also manifest in an inability to concentrate on tasks, staying organized or sitting still.
If you think that medication could help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment.
You might find your GP isn't keen to refer you to a specialist or give you an appointment in a timely manner. You may want to consider changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more details on how to make a decision.
You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric practitioner using the NHS system or independently. Some providers may not require a letter of recommendation from your GP however, the majority will. Make sure to check with your preferred provider prior to making a booking.
How do I obtain a private evaluation?
ADHD is a nexus of mental disorder that affects the function of brain processes like motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause problems in many areas of life for adults and can be challenging to manage. A personal ADHD assessment will help you understand the impact the symptoms have on your life, and identify how to manage these symptoms.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to one, it may be worthwhile looking for a different GP who is willing to.
A psychiatrist or specialist nurse typically conducts the assessment (or an appropriate healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). They are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician, either in person or over video call. This usually takes 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked questions regarding your current problems as well as your past struggles since childhood. A healthcare expert will determine if have any of the symptoms that are associated with ADHD like hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. You will be asked for examples of instances where you have shown these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and suggest treatment options.
If you're suffering from a chronic illness and don't want to wait for an appointment with the NHS seeking an assessment privately is advisable. It is important to note that an assessment conducted privately does not automatically mean your GP will prescribe medication. You will have to discuss the issue with them If you decide to use medication, you should consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England will recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD evaluation. The NHS provides a "Right to choose" process that allows you to ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can drastically reduce the time it takes to wait. Private providers can also offer a quick diagnosis.
In general, it's best to find a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one as they are not easily accessible. Some clinics insist on a GP recommendation before they schedule an appointment. However this isn't always required.
Psychologists are able to evaluate the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals - like Psychologists - can help you manage your symptoms, but they are unable to provide you with a formal diagnosis of ADHD that is required to get access to assistance services such as Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments at work.
A skilled Psychiatrist can identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are related to ADHD and look into any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is in a position to give you the best treatment if your honest and forthcoming.
You'll need to pay for your assessment. If you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your GP. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking with your GP about the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will ensure that they are aware of what you're doing and will give their consent when needed.
It's also worth looking into joining a support group in order to connect with others who suffer from ADHD and share their stories and suggestions. They can be extremely supportive, comforting and motivating. You can find online spaces on Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy regarding claims that private clinics give unreliable diagnosis. An undercover reporter visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he didn't have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were made in a hurry and did not take into consideration all the signs or consequences of ADHD on the lives of individuals. The report also raised concerns about patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and are required to pay out-of-pocket to get an assessment or prescription.
It is true that doctors will often refer you for an ADHD evaluation with one of the major private companies (such as Priory) but they usually inform you that there will likely be a waiting time. The waiting period varies from one provider to another provider, but is typically approximately six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and then do a extensive research on the company. If you choose a well-established and reputable company you'll likely have less wait time than if you see your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant impact on your daily functioning. They will also want to rule out other causes, like anxiety or depression. If they are required they will request proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). private adhd assessment can be a stressful experience particularly for those with complicated family relationships or who are unable to locate their childhood school records.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare provider You can request disability benefits from your local authority. It is important to be aware that the majority of GPs won't sign a document known as a shared-care agreement if you were diagnosed privately and you haven't been titrated fully to the final dose of medicine. This is due to the fact that doctors lack the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.