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ADHD Assessment in the UK An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will assess whether your symptoms cause significant impairment and will rule out other conditions like thyroid issues or depression. They might also request old school reports or other supporting evidence. It is essential that the person who is assessing you is an ADHD specialist. This is true for both GPs and psychiatrists. Waiting several times Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to consult a psychiatrist. The condition is recognized as a serious mental disorder with an impact on the lives of people. In some regions waiting times can last as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation. The issue is made worse by the increasing awareness of this condition as well as the increasing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and many patients are opting to seek treatment from private clinics. This has been made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to choose for private health care from any provider. Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medications for the NHS. The number of adults seeking an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently over the capacity of the service. Private psychiatrists are more knowledgeable in dealing with adults, and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are also more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety, which can often be associated in ADHD. However, many people are still worried about the quality of private assessments and their potential to over-diagnose the disease. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics have made diagnoses without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people suffering from ADHD. The BBC should be commended, for exposing the problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who need this help are being required to seek it privately, and the NHS should come up with ways to deal with the issue. In Recommended Looking at , if you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try the free test offered by a charity, or request an assessment from a private psychiatrist. They are generally less expensive than the NHS but do not include a prescription. Second opinion It is essential to seek out a diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could be advised to see a psychiatrist as part of your treatment. There are numerous private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have a lot of experience with a wide range adults, including women and men who may be suffering from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety. Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they are typically more efficient than NHS waiting times. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then arrange follow-up appointments if necessary. If you are insured that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You may be asked to complete questionnaires and referred for additional tests, like an MRI. It is possible to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The price includes both the assessment time as well as the titration fee. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and can be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires more appointments. Recommended Looking at of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient had spent three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to an unofficial clinic in desperate need. The BBC investigation exposed a number of instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD but were later withdrawn. This is a problem because it can be extremely depressing for patients to be incorrectly identified, and some patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects. In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment and titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it is important to check whether you're covered. Referral to an expert clinic If your GP suggests a specialist clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will assess whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and determine if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also assess for any co-morbidities (other mental health conditions) that might be present. Most of the time, these are depression and anxiety. The doctor will go over with you the options for treatment and medications if needed. During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring a trusted person or relative along to provide any additional information. It typically takes a few visits to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics offer a comprehensive assessment, and others will only test for specific symptoms. The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny following an Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics while his GP claimed that he did not have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an instance of “over-diagnosing” by private companies, but doctors can only recommend patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines. Many GPs refuse to sign a contract for shared healthcare with the NHS. This is the only way for them to transfer the care of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts on ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for their patients to get the treatment they need. If your GP hasn't recommended you for an ADHD assessment, ask them to do so. You can find out your estimated waiting time either by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose site. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by NHS. Confirmation of diagnosis Achieving an ADHD diagnosis can change your life forever. It aids people in understanding themselves and also their family and friends. It can also help them find the right treatment strategy. It's not always easy to get an assessment. Especially in the UK where patients are waiting for long periods for an assessment by the NHS. This can cause frustration for many who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD. If you are unable to wait, it is possible to self-refer for an assessment in private with a specialist psychiatrist who is experienced. This can save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. It is a long process that can take a few months. However it will provide you with more precise diagnoses than the ones offered by the NHS. You must ensure that the person performing your assessment is a psychologist or psychiatrist, since they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK that are qualified to assess ADHD. A private assessment may include a clinical interview conducted by a psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood experiences and other factors. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, at school, or in relationships. The doctor will also discuss other signs that might indicate ADHD. The result will be an extensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will provide to your GP with your permission. They may also prescribe medication if appropriate. They will also help you get other types of assistance, like mentoring and study skills support. They can also assist with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if you are a student at university. While it's not the best idea to take short cuts but the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. This means that there are some who try to cut the line by using online assessments or private clinics that provide quick appointments, but offer any clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, those with ADHD should still seek out a diagnosis as long as they are able to afford it.