ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor may refer an adult with ADHD to a private health professional for an assessment. This can be done in person or online via video call.
Panorama A BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the symptoms and how it affects the life of a person. This can result in better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK The first step is to talk with your GP and discuss the reasons you think you have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and send you to an expert for an assessment. This process will be quicker when you ask your GP to sign up for a plan which allows you to select your own provider.
The next step is a thorough psychiatric evaluation, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological test. It is always beneficial to bring a family member along with to provide support. After your assessment the doctor will give an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. The appointment is expected to last around two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that could arise when trying to get an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. If you are receiving treatment healthcare professionals, they must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your healthcare provider doesn't believe you suffer from ADHD, they should explain the reasons. It could be because they don't believe that you meet the criteria for the disorder, or that they think another condition better explains your behavior (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an additional opinion.
One of the primary reasons why adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their doctor or other medical experts. They might be told that their issues are the result of not trying to do enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be difficult, but keep in mind that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific evidence.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people with ADHD are unable to obtain an diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition or how to identify it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or assume that the person is masking these symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the distinction between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).
Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may mistake the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD, or assume that they suffer from anxiety or depression disorder due to it. Women with ADHD can find it difficult to diagnose because their symptoms are typically more subtle and difficult to detect. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Certain private assessment providers will require a letter from your GP before they will bring the appointment. adhd uk diagnosis I Am Psychiatry UK can be a difficult process due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessment are referred, and then rejected by doctors).
The GP who assesses you will want to inquire about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact on it. This may include questions about your work, home and family life, based on the service provider. They will also discuss the various strengths and types of drugs available to treat ADHD and which may be the best for you. In general, doctors will test stimulant medications first, but in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a non-stimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.
Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send paperwork to your GP that details the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a'shared-care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements, but not all of them. If your GP does not accept these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive an illness but don't want to take medication?
Many of the signs of anxiety and depression are similar to those for ADHD, so a mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is crucial and could consist of therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression towards other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at home, school or in the company of peers.
What happens if you want to drive?
Since the DVLA considers ADHD as a impairment, having the condition can make it harder for you to obtain your driver's license. However it is only applicable in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something that you'll need to discuss with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance particularly if you show inattention and unstable driving habits. You may have difficulty to organise your car, or remember to take your medication prior to driving. If you're concerned about this, opt to travel with someone else or only drive when there is no one else in the car.
As you can see that the Panorama program provided a biased negative perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have told us that they had received an assessment in private clinics without drug adjustment. They had return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This does not just discredit the NHS but also contributes to the stigma surrounding a condition for which many people feel judged, even by their family members.