ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare professional to receive an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that offer incorrect diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I fail to receive a diagnosis?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and can help you reduce the feeling of self-doubt and confusion. 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 the first step is to consult with your GP and discuss why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by a specialist. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your personal provider.
The next step is to conduct a thorough psychotherapy evaluation, which consists of a detailed interview and psychological test. It is always beneficial to bring a friend or family member with you for support. After the evaluation an expert will diagnose ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. Your appointment should last two sessions.
A diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that can arise when trying to get a diagnosis through the NHS. When providing care to you healthcare professionals, they must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not find that you suffer from ADHD, they should explain the reasons. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals do not understand their symptoms. They might be told that their problems are the result of not trying hard enough or that they are negligent or lazy. This can be very frustrating However, it is important to keep in mind that these kinds of stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree?
Many people with ADHD have difficulty getting a diagnosis. Some doctors are unaware of the condition and may not know what it is or how to diagnose it. Some doctors may ignore the symptoms or believe that the patient is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone gets down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or believe that they suffer from anxiety or depression disorder as a result. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion could lead to a mistreatment of the symptoms using antidepressants or other medications that are not helpful in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment companies will require a referral from your GP before they will take your appointment. This process can be complicated because NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessment are referred, and then rejected by GPs).
The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. This may include questions about your job, home, and family, depending on the provider. They'll also discuss the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be best for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medication first but if this doesn't suit you then a non-stimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
Once you've been diagnosed, the clinician will write to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and how they recommend you should be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some GPs will accept these agreements, but not all will. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What is the next step if I am diagnosed but do not want to take medication or other treatment?
A mental health professional can develop a treatment plan that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is vital, and it may include therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression towards others 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 to get your driving license. This only applies if your symptoms are having an ongoing and significant impact on your life. It is recommended to discuss this with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit an impulsive driving style and unpredictable driving behavior. As a result, you might find that you are having trouble organizing your car or remembering to take your medication before getting behind the wheel. If you are concerned about this, you may decide to travel with a passenger or only drive when you know you will be alone in the car.
As you can see that the Panorama program provided a negative and distorted opinion of private healthcare for ADHD assessments. adhd uk diagnosis Iam Psychiatry UK have reported to us that they received an assessment in a private clinic without any drug titration. They had go back to their GP to wait in the line to undergo an NHS assessment. This doesn't just discredit the NHS, it adds to the stigma of an illness that many believe they are being judged for even by their own family.