How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This will be performed by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
This can be a lengthy procedure, since the old school records might need to be provided. However, you can skip the wait and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you sit down with an expert to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It typically takes two sessions and is much more thorough than an NHS psychotherapy evaluation. The process consists of an organized interview with an expert who will review your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also determine if there are other disorders of the brain or mental issues that may cause your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, including relationships or work. They will ask you to provide examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is crucial to keep in mind that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are three of the main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically is not as boisterous hyperactivity that is common in children. It can be characterized by an inability to settle or a constant rushing. In addition, inattention can manifest as difficulty staying still and being organized or having difficulty focusing on tasks and forgetting things easily.
If you believe that medication can aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to apply for reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance. This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
You may find that your GP does not want to refer you, or doesn't give you an appointment in a timely manner. If this is the case, it could be worthwhile to switch GPs You can learn more about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You might also be able make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric service, either through the NHS system or privately. Some providers may not require a referral letter from your GP, but most do. Check with your chosen provider prior to booking.
How do I obtain an evaluation from a private person?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain processes such as 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 these symptoms have on your life and determine how you can manage the symptoms.
There are several providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) when you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to make this request then you may need to find another GP willing to do it.
A specialist nurse or psychiatrist is usually the one to conduct the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a medical interview in person or over video call. The typical time for this assessment is 45 to 90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked questions about your current issues as well as your past struggles since childhood. A healthcare professional will determine if you exhibit any of the traits that are associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, or an impulsive nature. You will be asked to provide instances of when you displayed these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then utilize these to establish an assessment and suggest treatment options.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for an appointment from the NHS getting a private assessment may be beneficial. It is important to note that a private assessment does not necessarily mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You'll need to discuss it with them If you decide to use medication, you should seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
If you have a GP in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider to conduct an ADHD assessment You can find a list of the providers here. Some of these companies offer online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are several methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS provides a "Right to choose" procedure where you can request a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. There are private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
It is best to seek out an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. It may take some time to locate one, since they are hard to find. Some will insist that you have an GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination however this is not always required.
Psychologists are able to evaluate your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can assist you to manage symptoms. However, they are unable to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to qualify for support services like Disabled Student's allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist can identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they're consistent with ADHD, and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist is able to provide you with the most effective treatment if you're honest and forthcoming.
You will have to pay for the exam however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to get medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to have to pay the NHS prescription charge). If private adhd assessment considering paying for an private diagnosis, we'd suggest you talk to your GP prior to scheduling an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
Participating in a support group is another option to get together with other adults with ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be incredibly helpful, encouraging and reassuring. You can find online groups through Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are distributing inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD even though they did not have ADHD. The report suggested that the assessments were not thorough and did not take into account all the symptoms or the effects of ADHD on people's 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 pocket to receive a diagnosis and medication.
It is true that doctors will often recommend an ADHD evaluation with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they will usually advise you there is likely to be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting varies from one provider to another, but is typically six weeks. Ask family and friends for recommendations and then do a thorough research about the provider. If you choose a well-established and reputable company, you'll probably have a shorter waiting time than if you visit your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will determine the subjectively whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant disruption in your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out other causes, such as depression or anxiety. If they are required they will seek additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This can be a stressful experience especially for those who have complex family situations or who are unable to locate their childhood school records.
After you have been evaluated and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be eligible to apply for disability support through your local authority. But, be aware that a majority of GPs are not willing to sign a document known as the shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and have not also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is because doctors lack the expertise to assess adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.