ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD may need to be referred by their GP to a private health specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done either in person or by video call.
Panorama A BBC investigation has revealed that some clinics give unreliable diagnosis. This can put people at risk.
What happens if I don't get an appointment?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and can help you reduce the feeling of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the condition, and how it affects a person's life. This can lead to better relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK, you should first speak to your GP about why you believe you may have ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and send you to a specialist for an assessment. This process will be faster if you ask your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your personal provider.
You will then go through a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. Bringing a family member along is always beneficial. After the assessment an expert will identify ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. The appointment is expected to last for about two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that may occur when trying to get a diagnosis through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment healthcare professionals, they must remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor doesn't determine that you have ADHD the doctor should explain the reason. It could be because they don't think you meet their criteria for the disorder, or that they believe an alternative condition is more likely to explain your behavior (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an additional opinion.
One of the main reasons why 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 issues are the result of not working to do enough or are lazy or negligent. It can be frustrating, but remember that these myths aren't supported by scientific research.
What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD struggle to get an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not be aware of what it is or how to recognize it. Some might ignore the signs or believe that the patient is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
In certain instances medical professionals who are unfamiliar with ADHD will confuse the person's behavior with their unmanaged ADHD or may believe that the patient is suffering from depression or anxiety due to their unmanaged ADHD. Women with ADHD may be difficult to recognize because their symptoms are often more subtle and difficult to identify. This could lead to a mistreatment of the symptoms with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they will take your appointment. This process can be complicated because NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then rejected by GPs).
The GP will ask you questions regarding your life, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. Based on the provider, this can include questions about your work, home and family. They will also discuss the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be most suitable for you. Most clinicians will suggest stimulant medication, but if it doesn't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant like Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you've been diagnosed the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a form that spells out the diagnosis and the way in which you should be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some doctors are in agreement with these agreements, but not all. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you'll still be required 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 anxiety and depression are the same as those of ADHD, so a mental health professional can help develop a treatment plan that fits the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential and may include talk therapy or a medication. It could also involve lifestyle modifications. Children who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression toward other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at school, home or in the company of friends.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
Since adhd uk diagnosis considers ADHD as a disability, having the condition could make it more difficult for you to get your driver's license. This is only a possibility when your symptoms have a an extended and significant impact on your daily life. This is something you should discuss with your doctor.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit impulsivity and erratic driving behaviors. It may be difficult to arrange your car or ensure that you take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, opt to travel with someone else or only drive when there's no one else in the car.
Panorama's negative portrayal of private health care in ADHD assessments is apparent. We hear from many adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration test, but then have to go back to their GP and wait in the end of the line to undergo an NHS assessment because they were 'sneaked' in to a private clinic. This does not just discredit the NHS but also increases the stigma that surrounds a condition for which many people feel belittled by their family members.