ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private health professional for an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that give unreliable diagnoses. This puts patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I fail to get an appointment?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment options and aid in reducing feelings of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the condition, and how it impacts the life of a person. This can lead to stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about the reasons you think you may have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and send you to a specialist to be assessed. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to use a plan that lets you select your personal provider.
You will then undergo an extensive psychiatric examination that includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. It is always helpful to bring a family member along with you for support. After your assessment the specialist will present an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. You should expect your appointment to last between two and three hours.
A private diagnosis specialist for adhd can assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of trying to obtain an appointment through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with must still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.
If your doctor isn't able to determine that you have ADHD you should be told the reasons. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is totally acceptable and shouldn't deter you from seeking a second opinion.
One of the most common reasons adults struggle to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical professionals. They may be told their issues are the result of not working hard enough or are incompetent or negligent. This can be extremely frustrating however it is important to remember that these kinds of myths do not come from evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or know how to diagnose it. Some may dismiss the symptoms as normal or assume that the person is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).
Some medical staff unfamiliar with ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or think that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. Women suffering from ADHD are often difficult to identify because their symptoms are often less obvious and harder to detect. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD by taking antidepressants as well as other medications that aren't effective.
Some private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to make an appointment. This can be a difficult process as NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then promptly rejected by the GPs).
The GP will ask you questions regarding your life and how ADHD symptoms affect it. This can include questions regarding your home, work and family, based on the doctor. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. In adhd diagnosis uk adults , doctors will test stimulant medications first, but if this doesn't suit you then a nonstimulant drug like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send you a document to your GP that details the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement'. Some GPs will accept these agreements however, not all of them. If your GP doesn't, you will be required to continue to pay privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?
A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are the same as those of ADHD and anxiety, therefore an expert in mental health can help develop the right treatment plan to meet the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy or a medication. It could also involve lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD may also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggression or aversion toward other people, or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at home, school or in the company of friends.
What happens if I want drive?
The DVLA categorizes ADHD as a disability. This could make it more difficult to get your driving license. However this is only the case in the event that your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your daily living. It is recommended to discuss this with your physician.
Similarly, having ADHD may affect how well you drive particularly when your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. In the end you could find you are having trouble organizing your car or remembering to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you can opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no other person in the car.
Panorama's negative portrayal of private healthcare in ADHD assessments is evident. Many adults have told us that they were given an assessment in private clinics without medication titration. They had to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just discredit the NHS but also creates a stigma around a condition that many people feel they are judged for, even by their family members.