ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult with ADHD might need to be referred by their GP to a private healthcare specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
Panorama, a BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This puts patients at risk.
What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you treatment options and help reduce anxiety or self-doubt. A diagnosis can help family members understand the symptoms and how it impacts a person's life. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK, the first step is to speak with your GP and discuss why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment with a specialist. This process will be faster when you ask your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your personal provider.
You will then go through an extensive psychiatric evaluation that includes a thorough psychological test and clinical interview. Bring a family member along is always beneficial. After your evaluation, the specialist will provide a clear diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. It is recommended that you plan for your appointment to last around two sessions.
A diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when seeking a diagnosis through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment the healthcare professionals must remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you suffer from ADHD They should be able to explain the reasons. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they may consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is okay and shouldn't discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
Adults often struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. They may be told their problems are the result of not trying to do enough or are incompetent or negligent. It can be difficult, but be aware that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people with ADHD have difficulty getting an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some might ignore the signs or think that the patient is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD may mistake the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or think that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder as a result. This is especially challenging for women with ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and easy to miss. This confusion could lead to a mistreatment of the symptoms with antidepressants or other medicines that are not effective in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment companies will require a written consent from your GP before they can take your appointment. This is not always easy as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to and later rebuffed by GPs) on bogus grounds.
The GP who evaluates you will ask some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This can include questions regarding your home, work and family, based on the doctor. They will also talk about the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be the best for you. Most clinicians will suggest stimulant medication however if they don't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send paperwork to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is known as a 'shared care agreement'. Some GPs accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you will still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?
A lot of the symptoms of depression and anxiety are the same as those of ADHD and anxiety, therefore a mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential, and it may include therapy, medication or lifestyle adjustments. Children who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression towards other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at school, home or with peers.
What happens if I want drive?
As the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it more difficult to get your driver's licence. This is only applicable in the event that your symptoms are having a a long-term and significant impact on your daily life. It is recommended to discuss this with your doctor.
In the same way, having ADHD could affect how you drive particularly when your symptoms include an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. It may be difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication prior to driving. If you are concerned about this, you may decide to drive with a passenger or only drive when you know you will be alone in the car.
As you can see, the Panorama program gave a highly biased negative view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they received a diagnosis in an private clinic with no drug adjustment. They had return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk discredits the NHS but also adds to the stigma that surrounds a condition that makes many sufferers are that they are judged, even by family members.