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How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
This week, BBC's Panorama program investigated how some private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has revealed some alarming incidents. However, it also reveals the hardships of those who are stuck between two rocks in a difficult place.
The NHS has long waiting times for adult ADHD assessment. Many prefer to pay for a private assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child are suffering from symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment can help you get the answers you require. ADHD symptoms are often misinterpreted as other disorders, so a correct diagnosis is vital to your overall health.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. These symptoms can cause difficulties at school, at work, and at home. Symptoms can also affect relationships and emotional well-being. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine if you're ADHD and offer the treatment you require to live your best life.
It is important that you find an independent ADHD assessor who can take the time necessary to assess you individually. This isn't a simple process, and the specialist is expected to devote more than three hours in the assessment. During the assessment, your specialist will ask you to talk about how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily functioning. They will also talk about your family history as well as any other mental health issues that you may have. They may also wish to speak to your school or employer to understand your situation better.
It is important to make sure the medical professional conducting your private ADHD assessment is a certified and experienced psychiatrist. You will receive the highest possible treatment. Private healthcare providers are governed by the same regulations as NHS healthcare professionals, and must adhere to best practice guidelines issued by NICE.
In addition, it's helpful to have any supporting information you have with you during the assessment. This could include medical records and psychological reports, letters from your GP or questionnaires that you have completed. Your specialist will need to have these documents to evaluate your symptoms and suggest a course of treatment for you.
It is important to be aware that some doctors have preconceived notions about what someone suffering from ADHD could appear like. This can make it hard to determine a proper diagnosis. This is especially relevant for people of color, people who were assigned genders at birth, or those who do not speak English natively.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complicated disorder that affects every aspect of the life of a person. It can affect concentration, impulsivity, and working memory. A private adhd assessment can provide a diagnosis and allow a person to take control of their symptoms and improve their lives. Getting an accurate diagnosis can help them discover the right treatment that can ease symptoms, decrease anxiety and improve their lives.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD involves an extensive medical history, questionnaires and a thorough physical examination. The GP has discretion when it comes to diagnosing ADHD but they will need to be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales are used to assess a person's symptoms. It is crucial that the healthcare professional conducting your assessment has the necessary skills, knowledge and expertise to recognize ADHD. The best choice is to talk to a psychiatrist, or an ADHD specialist nurse. However healthcare professionals who work in NHS clinics are also considered as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.
Unfortunately, some people don't receive the diagnosis they deserve or require due to the stigma associated with mental health and ADHD. This is due to the fact that an GP may be reluctant to refer them or because of a preconceived idea about what it means to have ADHD. It is also difficult for adults to obtain a diagnosis since they don't always exhibit the typical symptoms of ADHD.
It is advisable to schedule an appointment with a reputable private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD symptoms. They provide online assessments to diagnose a range of neurodevelopmental disorders. They also provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to talk with your GP and explain the difficulties you're having at work, home or in social situations. They must take your concerns seriously and arrange for you to be taken to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD vary from individual to individual and can include medications or other types of therapy, such as cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT). The type of treatment you are recommended for will depend on the severity and symptoms. You should also consider if you have other mental health issues that may influence your symptoms.
Some private clinics may be incorrectly diagnosing ADHD. This was exposed in a Panorama investigation that saw an undercover reporter book online appointments at three different private clinics, and receive powerful drugs following unreliable virtual assessments. The undercover reporter was able to answer questions regarding his health in a straight and honest manner however, he did not inform the clinics he was journalist.
It is crucial to have your assessment conducted by a healthcare professional who is a specialist in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists, but also GPs and other healthcare professionals with specific skills, knowledge of experience, and training in ADHD. To be deemed an ADHD specialist, it is not enough to have a license to practice or be on the NHS Register.
During the ADHD assessment process the doctor will ask you about how you feel and what symptoms are present. Your doctor will also ask you about any mental health issues and your family history. You must provide the best possible answers to these questions because they are crucial in determining if you have ADHD.
After the assessment, your clinician will discuss the next steps with you. This will probably include a decision regarding whether or not to treat you with medication, and a plan for the future care and follow-up. If you wish, you can choose to continue treatment as a privately-paying patient or return to the NHS for shared treatment.
It is important to be aware that if you have been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to access the medication you require on the NHS due to the long waiting lists. The "Right to choose" scheme allows adults in England to receive a private diagnosis and treatment. This is a great option if you can't wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can help a child or teen recognize and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle adjustments to improve their quality of life. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for a long time and are affecting their relationships or work can also benefit from a professional ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team of UK based Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have years of experience conducting assessments for adults and children suffering from ADHD. They offer a comprehensive ADHD assessment that includes diagnosis and treatment suggestions in line with NICE Guidelines. This can be paid in either three or five installments at PS195 (excluding medications recommended by clinicians). Some private assessments require a GP's referral however, others do not. Contact the provider to see what their policy is.