How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
This week, BBC's Panorama program investigated how some private clinics diagnosed adults with ADHD.
The investigation has revealed some alarming instances. It also highlights the plight for people who are caught between a rock ad an icy spot.
The waiting times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are long. Many opt 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 require. ADHD symptoms can be mistaken for other disorders. A correct diagnosis is essential for your health.
Inattention, hyperactivity and hyperactivity are the most prominent symptoms of ADHD. These signs can cause issues at school, work, and at home. Symptoms can also affect relationships and emotional well-being. private adhd assessments can help you identify if you have ADHD and provide the treatment you require to live your best life.
If you're looking for an independent ADHD assessment, it is crucial to choose a specialist who will be able to evaluate your personal needs. The specialist is expected to be prepared for a three-hour evaluation session. The specialist will inquire about how your ADHD symptoms affect your daily life. The specialist will also inquire about your family history and other mental health issues that you may have. They may also want to talk to your school or employer to get more information about your situation.
It is important to make sure the healthcare professional who is conducting your personal ADHD assessment is a trained and experienced psychiatrist. This will ensure you receive the highest quality of care. The same rules apply to private health providers as they do to NHS healthcare professionals. They must also adhere to the guidelines for best practice that are published in NICE.
In addition, it's important to bring any supporting information you have with you at the time you take part in the test. This could include your medical and psychological documents, letters from your GP and questionnaires you've completed, or the results of the ADHD test. Your specialist will need to have these records to be able to assess your symptoms and recommend a plan of treatment for you.
It is also important to be aware that a few medical professionals have preconceived notions about what someone suffering from ADHD appears like. This can make it difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. This is especially the case for people of color, people who were assigned a gender at birth, or those who do not speak English natively.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex condition that can affect every aspect of someone's life. It can affect concentration, impulsivity, and working memory. A private adhd evaluation can provide a diagnosis that allows a person to control their symptoms and improve their quality of life. An accurate diagnosis can help people determine the best treatment option to relieve symptoms, reduce anxiety and improve their life.
The diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process which involves a thorough examination, medical history and questionnaires. Doctors have discretion when regards diagnosing ADHD however they have to be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales will be used to evaluate the severity of symptoms a person experiences. It is important that the healthcare professional who is carrying out your assessment has the expertise, skills and experience to diagnose ADHD. The best option is to consult a Psychiatrist, or an ADHD specialist nurse. However healthcare professionals working in NHS clinics may also be assessed as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.
The stigma surrounding mental health and particularly ADHD means that some people do not get the diagnosis they need or are entitled to. This could be because a GP is reluctant to refer someone to a specialist or has a preconceived notion of what ADHD appears to be. It is also difficult for adults to receive a diagnosis since they may not exhibit the typical symptoms of ADHD.
It is worth arranging an assessment at a reputable private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD symptoms. They offer online assessments to identify a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to consult with your GP and explain the difficulties you're having at work, home or in social settings. They should consider you a serious case and suggest you see an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory Hospitals or wellbeing centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD differ from one person to another, but can include medications or other types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The type of treatment suggested will depend on the severity and symptom. You should also consider if you have any other mental health issues that may influence your symptoms.
There are concerns that some private clinics are misdiagnosing people with ADHD. This was exposed in a Panorama investigation that saw an undercover reporter book online appointments with three private clinics, and then receive powerful drugs after unreliable virtual assessments. The undercover reporter was able to answer questions regarding his symptoms in a truthful manner however, he did not inform the clinics that he was a journalist.
It is important that your test is performed by a healthcare specialist with experience in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists but also GPs, and other healthcare professionals who have particular skills as well as experience and knowledge in ADHD. It is not enough to possess an authorization to practice, or to be listed on the NHS register, to be considered a specialist in ADHD.
During the ADHD assessment your doctor will go through how you are feeling and what symptoms you are experiencing. They will also ask about your family history of ADHD and any other mental health issues that you might have. It is important to provide the best possible answers to these questions because they are crucial in determining if you have ADHD.
After your evaluation is completed the doctor will discuss with you the next steps. It will likely involve a decision on whether or not to treat you with medication, and a plan for the future treatment and follow-up. If you'd like to, you can choose to continue treatment as a privately-paying patient or return to the NHS for shared care.
It is worth bearing in mind that if you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be difficult to access the medication you require on the NHS due to long waiting lists. The 'Right to choose' scheme has made it easier for adults living in England to access private diagnosis and treatment, and is highly advised if you are waiting for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment helps a child or teenager to accept and comprehend their diagnosis, and makes positive lifestyle changes to improve their lives. A specialist ADHD assessment is also useful for adults who have struggled with the symptoms for a long time which have affected their relationship or work.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team comprised of UK based Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have years of experience conducting assessments for adults and children suffering from ADHD. They offer a full ADHD assessment, including diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE guidelines, which can be paid for in three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication recommended by clinicians). Certain private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Make sure to inquire with the provider to see what their policy is.