How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD an assessment of psychiatric disorders is required. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse.
It can be a long procedure, since old school records may need to be supplied. But, you can avoid the wait and get a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private assessment?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consult with a specialist to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually requires two sessions, and is more detailed than a NHS psychiatric evaluation. The procedure involves an organized interview with an expert who will examine your symptoms from childhood through adulthood. They will also look into whether there are any other neurological or mental health issues that could cause your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in different areas, such as at work or in relationships.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight forward one and many people who are told that they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnosis. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity typically looks different from the boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can be manifested as a sense of an inability to settle or a constant rushing. Inattention may also manifest as a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, being organised or sitting for long periods of time.
If you think medication will aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will enable you to access reasonable adjustments, as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment.
If your GP refuses to refer you, or is unable to make an immediate appointment you might want to change your GP. If this is the case, it could be worthwhile changing GPs You can find out more about how to exercise your right to choose the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able book an appointment with a private psychiatrist, either through the NHS or independently. Most of these providers will require a referral letter from your GP however some do not and you should be sure to inquire with the chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How do I obtain an evaluation from a private person?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain functions like motivation as well as working memory and attention. It causes problems in a variety of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact these symptoms have on your life and determine how you can manage these symptoms.
There are several companies that will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to recommend you to one of these providers. If your GP refuses to do so, it may be worth finding another GP who is willing.
Typically, an assessment will be performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or another healthcare professional of the appropriate level in accordance with NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only people who are able to diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician, either in person or over video call. It will typically last 45 to 90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked about your current difficulties as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare professional will determine if you have any of the symptoms associated with ADHD such as hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. You will be asked to provide instances where you showed these characteristics. The healthcare professional will use these to make an assessment and recommend treatments.
A private assessment may be helpful if you have been struggling for a long time and don't want to wait for an NHS referral. However, it is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean you can automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You'll still need to discuss this with them, and if you decide to test medication, it is recommended that you seek a shared-care agreement with your GP.
If you have a GP in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider for an ADHD assessment You can find a list of providers here. Some of these companies offer assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many ways to get an ADHD assessment. The NHS provides a "Right to choose" process that allows you to ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can drastically reduce waiting times. There are also private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
It is recommended to find a psychiatrist with experience in adult ADHD. It might take a while to find one, as they are hard to find. Some will require a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an examination however this is not always required.
Psychiatrists are able to provide an assessment of your symptoms, however, they are unable to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, such as Psychologists, can help you manage your symptoms. However, they are not able to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to receive support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist can identify and describe your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD and look into any other mental health issues you may have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the best treatment if you are honest and open.
You'll have to pay for the examination however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to obtain medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor (you'll have to be responsible for the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for an private diagnosis, we would suggest you talk to your GP prior to scheduling an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and provide their consent should they be required.
Participating in a support group is another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be very supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over assertion that private clinics are distributing unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them even though he didn't have ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were rushed, and did not take into consideration the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD affects people's everyday lives. It also raised concerns that patients who are not qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
It is true that doctors will often refer you for an ADHD assessment through one of the major private companies (such as Priory) however they will usually advise you private adhd assessment there will likely be a waiting period. This differs from provider to provider and is usually around six weeks. It is recommended to investigate the provider thoroughly and ask your family and friends members for word of mouth referrals. Choosing an experienced and well-established firm will likely mean that you'll have a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the assessment your psychiatrist will evaluate in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will want to rule out other causes such as anxiety, depression, or thyroid issues. They will usually ask you to supply supporting evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms regarding your childhood) and school records if required. This can be a difficult process particularly for those with more complex family circumstances or those who aren't successful in finding their school records from childhood.
Once you've been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare professional, you'll be eligible to apply for disability assistance at your local authority. Be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document called a shared-care agreement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and you aren't fully titrated to the dosage. This is due to the fact that doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.