How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama show this week investigated the way some private clinics diagnose adults suffering from ADHD.
The investigation has exposed some alarming cases. But it also reveals the plight of people who are stuck between a rock and a hard place.
The NHS has long waiting times for adults seeking an ADHD assessment. Many choose to pay for a private assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment can provide the answers you've been looking for. ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as other conditions. A proper diagnosis is essential for your health.
The main symptoms of ADHD are inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. These symptoms can lead to issues at school, at work and at home. Relationships and emotional wellbeing can be affected by these symptoms. Private ADHD assessments will allow you to determine if you suffer from ADHD and offer the treatment you require to lead a fulfilling life.
If you're looking for a private ADHD assessment, it is crucial to choose a specialist who will take the time to assess your personal needs. The specialist is expected to be prepared for a three-hour evaluation session. During the assessment, your specialist will have you discuss how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily functioning. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history and any other mental health issues that you may be suffering from. They may also wish to speak to your employer or school to help you understand your situation.
It is essential to make sure the medical professional conducting your personal ADHD assessment is a qualified and experienced psychiatrist. You will receive the top possible treatment. The same regulations apply to private healthcare providers just as they apply to NHS healthcare professionals. They must also adhere to the guidelines for best practice that are published in NICE.
It is also advisable to bring any supporting documents along to the test. This could include medical and psychological documents as well as letters from your GP, questionnaires that you've completed, or the results of the ADHD test. Your doctor must have these records to evaluate your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.
You should also be aware that some medical staff have preconceived notions of what someone suffering from ADHD appears like. This could make it difficult for them to get an accurate diagnosis. This is especially the case for those who are a person of colour, gender assigned at birth or not native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex disorder that can affect every aspect of a person's life. It affects the way our brains function, which could impact concentration, impulsivity and working memory. A private adhd assessment can give a diagnosis and help a person manage their symptoms and live better lives. Getting an accurate diagnosis can help them find a form of treatment which can ease symptoms, decrease anxiety and improve their quality of life.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process that involves a thorough exam as well as medical history and questionnaires. GPs can diagnose ADHD at their discretion, but they must consider your concerns seriously. They will recommend you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales will be used to assess the severity of the severity of symptoms a person experiences. It is essential that the healthcare professional conducting your evaluation has the skills, knowledge and expertise to recognize ADHD. A Psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse is the best choice, however healthcare professionals working in an NHS clinic may be suitable as they are controlled by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
The stigma surrounding mental health and specifically ADHD can mean that a few people do not get the diagnosis they require or are entitled to. This could be due to the fact that a GP is hesitant to refer a patient or has a preconceived notion of what ADHD is like. It can also be difficult for adults to receive a diagnosis because they do not always have the typical signs of ADHD.
If you think you or your child may be suffering from symptoms of ADHD you should consider arranging for an assessment by a reputable private practice like Diverse Diagnostics. They provide online assessments to identify a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They can also offer an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to consult with your GP and discuss the issues you are having at work, home or in social situations. They should take your concerns seriously and arrange for you to be directed to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellness centers.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD may differ based on the person. They could include medications or other types of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The type of therapy suggested will depend on your specific symptoms and the severity. It is also essential to consider whether you have any other mental health issues which could affect your symptoms, and to take these into account when deciding on the best method of treatment.
Private clinics might be incorrectly diagnosing ADHD. Panorama's investigation found that an undercover journalist was able to book appointments online with three private clinics, and received powerful medication after a lack of trust in the assessments online. The undercover reporter answered questions regarding his symptoms in a truthful manner and did not disclose to the clinics he was a journalist.
It is vital that you have your assessment conducted by an expert in healthcare who is a specialist in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists but also GPs as well as other healthcare professionals with specific knowledge, skills, experience and training in ADHD. It is not enough to have a licence to practice, or to be listed on the NHS register, to be considered a specialist in ADHD.
During the ADHD evaluation the doctor will ask you how you feel and what signs are present. They will also ask about your family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues you might have. It is essential to answer fully to these questions, since they are key to determining whether or not you suffer from ADHD.
After your evaluation Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. This could include a decision on whether to prescribe medication, and an action plan for your future care and following up. If you'd like you want to continue treatment as a private-paying patient or return to the NHS for shared treatment.
It is important to be aware that If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to obtain the medication you need on the NHS due to the long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults in England to access private diagnosis and treatment and is highly recommended if you're struggling to wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can help a child or teen to accept and accept their diagnosis and make positive lifestyle changes to improve their lives. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for many years and have a negative impact on their relationships or work may be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team comprised of UK located Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists with extensive experience the assessment of adults and children with ADHD. They provide a thorough ADHD evaluation with diagnosis and treatment recommendations according to NICE Guidelines. The assessment can be paid in three or five payments at PS195 (excluding medication suggested by a clinician). Some private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Check with the service provider to find out what their policy is.