Private ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is still underdiagnosed and untreated. This results in a high cost for both the individual and society. This is largely due to the attitudes of gatekeepers, who oversee the pathways to referral.
It is possible to get a private diagnosis through the NHS 'Right To Choose' scheme, which permits you to be referred to a certified provider that has contracts with the NHS. This can speed things up.
Waiting at various times
The NHS is swamped with demand for ADHD assessments and treatments which means long waits. A charity warned that some patients wait for seven years to receive their first assessment. ADHD Action, a charity has warned that people who have not been diagnosed with ADHD are in a dangerous situation. The charity ADHD Action said this is despite the fact the awareness of ADHD has grown due to the presence of celebrities such as Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
One of the main reasons for the long wait times is the fact that there aren't enough NHS ADHD specialists to meet the demand. The NHS doesn't regularly gather data, making it difficult to determine how many people are currently waiting for an ADHD assessment. Private healthcare patients can choose an alternative route. They can ask their doctor to refer them outside of the area or pay privately for an ADHD evaluation.
A private assessment is a 45 - 90 minute consultation with a psychiatrist who will inquire about your medical history and symptoms. They will then suggest a course of medication or treatment according to their findings. Private assessments are a great alternative for those looking for quick and precise diagnosis. You should be aware that some providers will require a referral from a doctor and others don't. This could impact your options should you choose to sign an agreement for shared-care with your GP. In this case you will only be charged the NHS prescription fees for your medications.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis can be stressful, particularly if you're struggling with your symptoms. It can be a welcome relief. Being able to identify the cause of your illness will help you make better decisions about your life and increase your quality of life. If you're thinking about a private diagnosis, here are some tips to help you choose the right healthcare provider.
Verify the credentials and experiences of a psychiatrist prior to selecting one. The psychiatrist should not just have a medical degree but also completed specialist training in the field of mental health. Find out if the psychiatrist holds a license to prescribe medication. It is also important to ensure that the psychiatrist has an interest in treating ADHD. The psychiatrist should also be able to detect and treat co-morbidities with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are doctors with medical qualifications who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. They can help with both physical and emotional issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in a variety of fields such as psychotherapy social work, pharmacology and psychotherapy. Some psychiatrists have been trained in transcultural psychotherapy and have extensive experience both in adult and child psychiatry.
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD You should begin by speaking to your GP about your concerns. Your concerns should be taken seriously by your GP, who will refer you for an assessment. You should be prepared to speak about your symptoms and family history, since these can impact on the diagnosis. Before referring you to an evaluation, your doctor may ask you to complete an ADHD screener. It can take up to an hour, and is usually done in person, but you can also complete the questionnaire over the phone or online video call.
Only private adhd assessment uk iampsychiatry.com or a specialist nurse can conduct an assessment for ADHD. This is because only these health professionals can prescribe medication for the condition. If you'd rather not use medication, you may still consult a psychologist. The assessment usually lasts for 90 minutes, but you can anticipate spending longer than this because your Psychiatrist will be looking into your symptoms and history.
BBC's Panorama programme recently highlighted the long waiting times for ADHD assessments in the NHS. The program also questioned quality of certain private ADHD assessment services. The report alleged that some psychiatrists are diagnosing adult with ADHD and prescribing them drugs without evaluating their symptoms. In some instances patients fail to comply with the prescriptions. This can lead to serious adverse effects, including insomnia and high blood pressure.
At present, NHS patients can choose the doctor they wish to visit for an ADHD assessment. You can find a list of GPs who provide this service here. The list doesn't contain every provider that has signed a contract with NHS England. You can also obtain private treatment through Right to Choose, although the consultation fees are not paid for by the NHS.
CBT therapy
There are a variety of different treatment options available to adults suffering from ADHD. The most well-known is stimulant medication, however there are also many non-medication treatments that can be helpful. For instance, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD by changing negative thoughts and behavior. This kind of therapy usually involves an amalgamation of individual and group sessions and requires a strong relationship with your counselor. It is also crucial to determine if you have any co-existing mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, since these can impact your ability to manage your symptoms.
It is important that you discuss with your GP about your concerns. They must take your concerns seriously and refer you to an ADHD evaluation. You may be asked to complete some sort of questionnaire, like the DIVA test. You will be able to meet with a psychiatrist to discuss your concerns and determine the most effective treatment options.
A private ADHD assessment is a great alternative if you are unable to wait for an NHS referral. A private assessment entails an interview lasting 45-90 minutes with an adult ADHD specialist psychiatrist. The cost will range between PS500 and PS800. Some providers require the GP referral, whereas others do not.
A diagnosis of ADHD can make a difference in your life by assisting you to manage your symptoms, and reduce stress levels. It can also reduce the chance of taking impulsive actions which can lead to problems in your work or personal relationships. Many people who suffer from ADHD also benefit from joining a support group. It can be a calming and empowering space for people with ADHD and you can learn about these groups online or in person.
It is vital to know that only a Psychiatrist, or a certified specialist nurse can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental healthcare professionals are able to assess ADHD, but cannot diagnose the disorder. A Psychiatrist, specialist nurse, or other mental health professional can suggest the most appropriate treatment for ADHD. This could involve medications, lifestyle modifications or psychological intervention.
Medication
With the growing awareness of ADHD increasing numbers of people are seeking treatment for their symptoms. In the process, the NHS is struggling to keep up with demand. This is especially relevant for adult ADHD assessment which can last up to several weeks. There are fortunately, private clinics that provide quick and convenient assessments for adults with ADHD. These clinics offer an extensive ADHD assessment, which includes an official diagnosis. If needed, they'll prescribe medication.
The BBC's Panorama programme recently exposed a number of private health clinics giving incorrect ADHD diagnoses in the UK. These clinics profit from the growing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. However, this doesn't mean people with ADHD should stop seeking medical attention. Remember that this condition is serious and can impact many aspects of your life. In fact, untreated ADHD can result in an 12.7 year decrease in life expectancy(2).
It is often difficult to obtain an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, especially when you have a GP who is unwilling or has preconceived beliefs about the disorder. These prejudices persist despite the increased awareness of the disorder. They can hinder people from receiving a correct diagnosis. It is also important to understand that just because someone pays for healthcare, it doesn't mean they can bend the rules. Your healthcare provider should adhere to NICE guidelines when diagnosing ADHD.
If your GP is reluctant to refer you to an ADHD assessment, you can seek an individual psychiatrist who will evaluate you and may prescribe medication if appropriate. The psychiatrist will also conduct an interview to determine if your ADHD symptoms are affecting your life. The psychiatrist will ask about your family history and your life experiences to determine the extent of your ADHD.
A complete ADHD report will be included in the assessment and can be delivered directly to your GP. It could be used to justify claims for reasonable accommodations at work or Disabled Student Allowance (DSA).