ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult with ADHD to a private health professional for an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that provide inaccurate diagnoses. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A professional diagnosis can give you access to treatments and reduce anxiety or self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members to know the symptoms and how it affects the daily activities of a person. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK, the first step is to consult with your GP and discuss why you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment by a specialist. This process will be more efficient If you request your GP to use a scheme that allows you to choose your preferred provider.
Then, you will undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. It is always helpful to bring a family member with to provide assistance. After your assessment, the specialist will provide a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. The appointment should last for two sessions.
A diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that could arise when you attempt to obtain an appointment with the NHS. When delivering care to you, the healthcare professionals should follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not find that you have ADHD They should be able to explain the reasons. It could be because they don't think you meet the criteria for this disorder, or they believe that another condition better explains your traits (symptoms). This is fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking a different opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. Some doctors may tell them that their problems are due to an inability to work or that they are lazy or incompetent. It can be difficult, but remember that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even how to identify it. Others might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is hiding these symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may mistake the person's behavior as a sign of untreated ADHD or believe that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and easy to miss. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective.
Certain private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they can take the appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessment are referred, and then rejected by the GPs).
adhd uk diagnosis who assesses you will ask you some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your home, work and family. They will also discuss the different types and strengths of medication that are available to treat ADHD and which may be most suitable for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a non-stimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
If you are diagnosed the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a form that spells out the diagnosis and how that you be treated. This is called a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors will sign these agreements, but not all will. If your GP does not, you will be required to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I get a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?
A lot of the symptoms of depression and anxiety are the same as those of ADHD, so an expert in mental health can help develop the right treatment plan to meet the individual needs of each person. Early treatment is essential and may include talk therapy or a medication. It may also require lifestyle adjustments. Children who suffer from ADHD can also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern or aggression toward other people or serious infringements of social norms and regulations at school, home or in the company of the peers.
What happens if you want to drive?
As the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it more difficult to obtain your driver's license. This is only a possibility when your symptoms have a a long-term and significant impact on your life. This is something that you would need to discuss with your physician.
Similarly, having ADHD may affect how well you perform when driving, especially when your symptoms include inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. In the end, you might find that you struggle with organizing your car or remembering to take medication before getting behind the wheel. If you're worried about this, choose to travel with a partner or only drive when there is no other person in the car.
As you can see it, the Panorama programme gave a very negative and biased perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have shared with us that they had received a diagnosis in private clinics without medication titration. They were then required go back to their GP to wait in line to undergo an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also contributes to the stigma associated with a condition that makes many people feel judged, even by their family members.