How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This will be done by a psychiatrist, or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape like the requirement for old school reports to be supplied. However, you can bypass the wait and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private appraisal?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you sit down with an expert and discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The procedure involves an organized clinical interview with an expert and they will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also consider if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that could cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in various areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition suffer from an undiagnosed diagnosis. It is essential to keep in mind that the three main symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Adult hyperactivity is often different from the raucous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It may manifest as restlessness or a constant flurry of activity. In addition, inattention can manifest as difficulty sitting still and being organised or having difficulty in focusing on tasks and oblivious to things easily.
If you decide that medication might be beneficial for your condition, you will need to get a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. This will enable you to apply for reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, or is unable to make an appointment in a hurry, you may want to change GPs. If this is the case, it might be worth switching GPs You can learn more about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider using the NHS system or independently. Some providers might not require a referral letter from your GP, but most will. Make sure to check with your preferred provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I obtain a private assessment?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain functions like motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and can be helpful in determining how they could be managed.
There are a variety of providers who can conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to one it could be worthwhile to find another GP who is willing to.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist typically conducts the assessment (or another appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). This is because they 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. The typical time is 45-90 minutes.
You will be asked about your current issues as well as your previous struggles in your early years if you are an adult. The healthcare professional will then consider whether you have any of the traits that are associated with ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked to give examples of when you have demonstrated these traits. The healthcare professional will then utilize this information to determine the cause and suggest treatments.
A private assessment may be helpful if you have been struggling for a long period of time and do not wish to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to note that an assessment conducted privately does not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You will still need to discuss this with them, and if you do decide to try medications it is recommended you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England is willing to send private adhd assessment you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers offer online assessments and have much shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process known as "Right to Choice" where you can request your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors on their list - this will reduce the time to wait significantly. Private providers can also provide an immediate diagnosis.
It is advisable to seek out a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, as they are not easy to come by. Some will require a GP referral letter before they will see you for an assessment, but this is not always required.
Psychiatrists are able to assess your symptoms but cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for assistance such as the Disabled Student's allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
A specialist Psychiatrist can diagnose and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are consistent ADHD and take into account any other mental health issues that you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the best treatment if you are open and honest.
You'll need to pay for the exam however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to receive medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to have to pay the NHS prescription charge). If you're considering 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 provide their consent should they be required.
It is also worthwhile to consider joining a support group in order to meet others who suffer from ADHD, and hear their stories and solutions. They can be very helpful, comforting, and inspiring. You can find online groups via Facebook and Reddit or local in-person groups.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the assertion that private clinics are giving out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he did not have ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were rushed, and didn't take into account the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to receive a diagnosis and medication.
There is no doubt that your physician will recommend you to one of the major private companies for an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will inform you that there could be a waiting time. The waiting time is different from one company to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct thorough research about the provider. Selecting a reputable and experienced firm will likely mean that you'll have a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily functioning. They will ask you to rule out any other reasons, such as depression or anxiety. If needed, they will ask for proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This is a stressful process particularly for those with complicated family relationships or who cannot find their school records from childhood.
Once you've been assessed and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional you will be eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. You should be aware, however, that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract called a shared-care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and aren't fully titrated to your dosage. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.