How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD A psychiatric evaluation is required. official source will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape for example, the need for old school reports to be provided. However, you can skip the waiting and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly with an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment of ADHD is a meeting where you meet with an expert and discuss your symptoms, as well as how they affect your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The procedure involves an in-depth clinical interview with an expert and they will look at your symptoms from your childhood to adulthood. They will also consider if there are any other neurological or mental health issues that may cause your symptoms. They will inquire about your symptoms in different areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis isn't always straightforward. Many people who are diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. It is crucial to remember that the three main symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. In adults, hyperactivity typically appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity that is common in children. It can be manifested as a sense of the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, being organised or sitting down.
If you think medication will alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
You may find that your GP isn't keen to refer you, or doesn't offer you an appointment immediately. If this is the case, it might be worthwhile changing GPs - you can find more information about how to make use of your right to choose on the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist on your own, either through the NHS or independently. A majority of these doctors will require an appointment letter from your GP but some don't however, so make sure to check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I get an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults can have difficulty coping with the condition, which can cause problems in many areas. A personal ADHD assessment can aid you in understanding the impact these symptoms have on your life, and help you manage them.
There are a variety of providers who will carry out an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to refer you to one it could be worthwhile to find another GP who is willing to.
Typically, an assessment will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or other appropriate healthcare professional, as per NICE guidelines). These are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, the ADHD evaluation will involve questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician, either in person or over video call. This usually takes 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked about your current issues and your background from your childhood. The healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the traits associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked for instances of when you've displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then make use of this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
A private assessment can be helpful if you have been struggling for a long period of time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. It is important to remember that the private diagnosis does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will still need to discuss this with them, and if you do decide to try medications it is recommended you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can find a list here of providers if your GP in England is willing to recommend you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide online assessments and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to obtain an ADHD evaluation. The NHS has a process called "Right to Choice" where you can ask your GP for a referral to one of the specialist doctors on their list. This will reduce the time to wait significantly. There are also private providers who can diagnose quickly.
It is best to seek out an experienced psychiatrist who has experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one since they aren't readily available. Some will insist on a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment however this is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals - including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not provide you with a formal diagnosis of ADHD which is required to get access to assistance services like Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments to work.
A skilled Psychiatrist will be able to identify and explain your symptoms, determine whether they're consistent with ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues that you may have. It is crucial to be honest and open with your Psychiatrist to ensure they can give you the best possible treatment.
You'll have to pay for the examination however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll have to be responsible for the NHS prescription cost). If you're thinking of paying for an private diagnosis, we'd advise you to talk with your GP before you book an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and give their approval should they be required.
Joining a support group can be another option to get together with others who have ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. 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 claims that some private clinics are handing out inaccurate diagnoses. An undercover reporter went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though the patient did not have ADHD. The report suggests that these assessments were rushed and did not consider all the symptoms or the effects of ADHD on the lives of people. It also raised concerns about the fact that patients who aren't eligible for NHS assessments are forced to pay out of their own pockets to get a diagnosis and medication.
It is true that GPs may suggest you to have an ADHD evaluation with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) but they will typically advise you that there will likely be a waiting period. The waiting time is different from one company to the next and is usually six weeks. It is advisable to study the provider thoroughly and ask friends and family members for word of mouth recommendations. If you select a reputable and reputable business you'll likely have a shorter waiting time than if you see your GP.
In the course of the evaluation the psychiatrist will, albeit subjectively examine whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption to your daily functioning. They will seek to rule out any other causes such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid problems and will typically request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms about your childhood) and school reports if necessary. This can be a stressful experience particularly for those with complex family situations or who are unable to locate their school records from childhood.
After you have been evaluated and given a diagnosis of ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be able to apply for disability support at your local authority. But, be aware that a majority of GPs will refuse to sign a document called 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 experience to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.