ADHD Private Diagnosis
A person suffering from ADHD might be referred by their GP to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done either in person or online through video chat.
Panorama A BBC investigation, has revealed that some clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.
What happens if I don't have a diagnosis?
adhd uk diagnosis from a professional will grant you access to treatment and aid in reducing feelings of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the symptoms and how it affects a person's life. This could lead to better communication and a better management of ADHD.
In the UK the first step is to consult with your GP and discuss the reason you think you have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert for an assessment. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to sign up for an option that allows you to select your preferred provider.
You will then undergo an extensive psychiatric evaluation which includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your evaluation the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when you attempt to obtain an appointment with the NHS. Healthcare professionals you work with should be able to follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.
If your doctor doesn't believe you have ADHD, they should explain the reason. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking a second opinion.
One of the primary reasons adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their doctor or other medical experts. They may be told that their problems are the result of not trying hard enough or are lazy or negligent. This can be extremely frustrating, but it is important to keep in mind that these types of stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD are unable to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition, or even how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or think that the patient is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors may be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health disorders like depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which can manifest with the same symptoms).
In some instances medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD might confuse the person's behavior with their uncontrolled ADHD or will think that the person suffers from anxiety or depression because of their unmanaged ADHD. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment companies require a letter of recommendation from your GP to make an appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred to, and then immediately rejected by doctors).
The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle and how ADHD symptoms impact it. This can include questions regarding your home, work, and family, depending on the service provider. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of medication that are available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be most suitable for you. Most doctors will recommend stimulant medications but if they find it doesn't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send a letter to your GP which outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is called a "shared care agreement". Some GPs accept these agreements but not all. If your GP does not, you'll need to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis but don't want to take medication?
A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are the same as the symptoms of ADHD, so a mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the individual needs of each person. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy or medicine. It could also include lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression towards other people or severe violations of social norms and rules at home, school or in the company of peers.
What happens if you decide to drive?
The DVLA classifies ADHD as a disability. This can make it harder for you to obtain your driving license. This is only a possibility in the event that your symptoms are having a an extended and significant impact on your daily life. You should discuss this with your doctor.
Similar to having ADHD may affect how well you perform when driving in particular if your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. You may find it difficult to organise your car, or ensure that you take your medication before driving. If you are concerned about this, you can choose to travel with a passenger or only drive when you are certain you'll be the only driver in the car.
The negative portrayal by Panorama of private healthcare in ADHD assessments is evident. We hear from many adults who receive a diagnosis without a drug titration test, but then must go back to their GP and wait in the back of the line to undergo an NHS assessment due to being'sneaked' in to a private clinic. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS, it adds to the stigma of the condition, which many believe they are judged for even by their family members.