How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama program this week has looked into the way that private clinics identify adults with ADHD.
The investigation has highlighted some troubling cases. It also reveals the dire situation for people who are caught between a rock ad in a rocky spot.
The NHS has long waiting times for adults seeking an ADHD assessment. Many opt to pay for a private assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of ADHD If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment will help you find the answers you need. ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as other disorders. A proper diagnosis is essential to your health.
The most prominent symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. These issues can create problems in school, work and at home. The emotional well-being and relationships can be affected by these symptoms. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine if you are ADHD and offer the treatment you require to lead your best life.
If you are looking to obtain a private ADHD assessment, it is crucial to find a professional who will be able to evaluate you as an individual. The specialist should be ready for a three-hour assessment session. During the examination, your doctor will have you discuss how your ADHD symptoms affect your everyday functioning. Your specialist will also ask about your family history as well as any other mental health issues you might have. They may also want to talk to your employer or your school to get more information about your situation.
It is important that the medical professional who is conducting your private ADHD assessment is a certified experienced and skilled psychiatrist. You will receive the highest possible treatment. The same rules apply to private health providers as they do to NHS healthcare professionals. They should also adhere to the guidelines for best practice that are which are outlined in NICE.
In addition, it is beneficial to bring any additional information with you at the time you take part in the test. This could include psychological and medical documents or letters from your GP or a questionnaire you have completed, or the results of the ADHD test. These records are required by your specialist to assess your symptoms and determine the best treatment plan.
It is important to be aware that certain doctors have preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD might appear like. This makes it difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. This is particularly true for people who are a person of colour, gender assigned at birth, or who are not native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a nebulous disorder that affects every aspect of the life of a person. It can impact concentration, impulsivity, and working memory. A private adhd assessment can help identify the cause that allows a person to control their symptoms and improve their life. An accurate diagnosis can help people find the appropriate treatment to relieve symptoms, reduce anxiety and improve their life.
Diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process which involves a thorough examination of medical history, questionnaires and a thorough examination. GPs have discretion when it comes to diagnosing ADHD however they have to be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment. A person's symptoms will be assessed using clinical interviews as well as a range of scales that are validated. It is important that the healthcare professional carrying out your assessment is skilled, knowledgeable and experience to diagnose ADHD. The best option is to talk to a psychiatrist or an ADHD specialist nurse. However healthcare professionals who work in NHS clinics are also considered as they are regulated under the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.
Unfortunately, some people don't receive the diagnosis they need or deserve because of the stigma that surrounds mental health and ADHD. This could be due to the fact that a GP might be reluctant to refer them or because of an assumption about what it means to have ADHD. Adults may also have trouble getting a diagnosis, as they might not display the classic symptoms of ADHD.
If you suspect that you or your child may have symptoms of ADHD It is worth making an appointment to have an assessment by a reputable private practice such as Diverse Diagnostics. They offer online assessments for a range of neurodevelopmental issues and can also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. In the beginning, you should talk to your GP regarding the difficulties you are experiencing at home, at work, or in social settings. They must take your concerns seriously and arrange to have you referred to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD differ from one person to another and can include medication or other forms of therapy like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The type of treatment you are recommended for will depend on the severity and symptom. It is also crucial to determine if you suffer from any other mental health problems that could affect your symptoms, and to consider these when deciding on the most effective course of treatment.
Some private clinics may be not correctly diagnosing ADHD. This was highlighted in an Panorama investigation, which saw an undercover journalist schedule appointments online at three different private clinics, and receive powerful drugs after inaccurate virtual assessments. The undercover journalist was able to answer questions honestly about his symptoms, but he did not inform the clinics that he was a journalist.
It is essential to have your assessment conducted by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists, but also GPs, and other healthcare professionals who have specific skills as well as experience and knowledge in ADHD. To be regarded as an ADHD specialist, it's not enough to possess an authorization to practice or be on the NHS Register.
During the ADHD assessment your doctor will go through how you are feeling and what symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will also inquire with you about any mental health issues and your family history. You should answer with the most truthful answers possible to these questions as they are crucial in determining if you suffer from ADHD.
Once your assessment is complete, your clinician will talk to you about the next steps. It will likely involve a decision about whether to prescribe medication, and the plan for your future treatment and follow-up. You can then choose to continue to receive treatment as a private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) should you wish to do this.
It is important to be aware that if you have been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to get the medication you require from the NHS due to long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults living in England to access private diagnosis and treatment and is highly advised if you are struggling to wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can aid a child or teen recognize and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for a long time and are affecting their relationships or work can be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team of UK located Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have years of experience the assessment of adults and children with ADHD. They offer a thorough ADHD assessment with diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE guidelines. This assessment can be paid for with three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication suggested by a clinician). Some private assessments do require a GP's referral, while others don't. Make sure to check with the provider you choose for their policies.