Read the Full Post - Why You Should Choose a Private ADHD Clinic
ADHD is still underdiagnosed and is often not treated. This has a high cost for both the individual and society. This is largely due to the attitudes of gatekeepers who manage the referral pathways.
You can get a private diagnostic by utilizing the NHS "Right To Choose" scheme. This permits you to be referred by the NHS to a reputable provider who has contracts. This could speed up the process considerably.
Waiting times
The NHS is overwhelmed by the demand for ADHD assessment and treatment, resulting in long waiting times. A charity warned that people wait seven years for their first assessment. ADHD Action, a non-profit organization has warned that those with undiagnosed ADHD are in a perilous position. The charity ADHD Action said this is despite the awareness of ADHD has risen due to the presence of celebrities such as Loose Women's Nadia Sawalha who have been open about their struggles.
The NHS is not equipped with enough ADHD specialists to meet the demand. This issue is made worse by the fact that the NHS does not regularly collect collected data which makes it difficult to establish the number of people waiting to be assessed. People who have access to private healthcare can choose a different path by asking their doctor to refer them outside of their area or by paying privately for an ADHD assessment.
A private consultation lasts between 45 and 90 minutes with a psychiatrist. He will ask you questions regarding your symptoms and past history. The psychiatrist will suggest a treatment or medication based upon the results. Private assessments are an option for those looking for a quick, accurate diagnosis. However, you should be aware that some providers require a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. This can affect your options if you decide to enter into a shared-care arrangement with your GP. In this instance you will only be charged the NHS prescription fees for your medications.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be stressful, especially if you're struggling with your symptoms. It can be a relief. Having a clear diagnosis can assist you in making better choices regarding your life and enhance your quality of life. Here are some guidelines for finding the right provider if you're considering a privately-diagnosed patient.
Examine the credentials and experience of a psychiatrist prior choosing one. In addition to a medical degree, the psychiatrist must have completed specialized training in the field of mental health. It is also important to determine whether the psychiatrist is licensed to prescribe medication. Make sure that the psychiatrist is interested in treating ADHD. Additionally the psychiatrist should also be able to recognize and treat any co-morbidities associated with ADHD.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are doctors with medical qualifications who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. They can assist with emotional and physical issues like ADHD. Many psychiatrists are experts in several areas, including psychotherapy, social service and the science of pharmacology. Some have also trained in transcultural psychiatry. They have a wealth of experience with both children and adults psychiatry.
You should first talk to your GP to discuss your concerns. Your concerns should be considered seriously by your doctor, who will refer you for an assessment. You should be ready to discuss your symptoms as well as family background, as they could affect the diagnosis. Your doctor may ask you to fill out an ADHD screener questionnaire prior to referring you for an assessment. It can take up to an hour, and is usually done in person, but you can also complete the questionnaire over the phone or via an via video chat online.
Only a psychiatrist or a specialist nurse, can conduct an assessment for ADHD. Only these health professionals are able to prescribe medications for this condition. If you'd rather not take medications, you can still consult a psychologist. The assessment lasts 90 minutes, however your Psychiatrist could take longer as they will explore your symptoms and past.
BBC's Panorama show recently highlighted the long wait times for ADHD assessments in the NHS. The program also questioned quality of some private ADHD assessment services. The report claimed that certain psychiatrists are diagnosing adult with ADHD and prescribing them drugs without evaluating their symptoms. In some instances, these patients aren't taking their medication in the manner prescribed. This can lead to serious side effects, such as insomnia and high blood pressure.
Currently the NHS lets patients choose which provider they go to for an ADHD assessment. There is a list of GPs who offer this service here. The list doesn't include all providers that have a contract with NHS England. Right to Choose allows you to access private treatment, but the consultation fees are not subsidised.
CBT therapy
There are a myriad of treatments available to adults with ADHD. There are a variety of treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. The most popular is stimulant medication. However, there are other non-medication treatments which can be helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for instance can help to improve ADHD symptoms by changing negative thoughts or behaviors. This type of therapy usually requires a mix of group and individual sessions, and requires a strong working relationship with your therapy provider. It is also essential to think about whether you have any co-existing mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, since these can impact your ability to manage your symptoms.
It is important that you discuss with your GP regarding your concerns. They should be able to take your concerns seriously and refer you to an ADHD evaluation. You may be asked to fill out an assessment such as the DIVA test. You will then see a psychiatrist to discuss your issues and discover what treatment options are available.
If you can't wait to receive a referral from the NHS or the NHS, a private ADHD assessment may be able to help. A private assessment will consist of a 45- to 90-minute interview with a psychiatrist who has been specifically trained to diagnose adult ADHD. It can cost between PS500 and 800. Some providers require the referral of a GP and some don't.
A diagnosis of ADHD can make a difference in your life by helping you to cope with your symptoms and decrease stress levels. It can also decrease the risk of taking impulsive decisions that can lead to trouble in your professional or personal relationships. Many people who suffer from ADHD are also benefited by joining a support group. These groups can be an encouraging, empowering and supportive environment for people suffering from ADHD. You can find them online or in person.
It is essential to know that only a qualified specialist nurse or psychiatrist can prescribe medication for ADHD. Psychologists and other mental health experts can evaluate ADHD, but cannot diagnose the disorder. A specialist nurse or a psychiatrist will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment option for ADHD, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or psychological intervention.
Medication
As ADHD becomes more well-known and more people seek treatment for its symptoms. As a result, the NHS is trying to keep up with demand. This is especially true for adult ADHD assessments, which can take several weeks to complete. There are fortunately, private clinics that can offer rapid and efficient assessments for adults suffering from ADHD. These clinics provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment, including written diagnosis. If necessary, they will prescribe medication.
The BBC's Panorama programme recently exposed a number of private health clinics giving incorrect ADHD diagnoses in the UK. These clinics take advantage of the increasing demand for ADHD diagnosis and treatment. This does not mean that people with ADHD should not seek medical attention. It is crucial to remember that the condition is serious and affects many areas of life. In reality, untreated ADHD can lead to a 12.7 year decrease in life expectancy(2).
Being diagnosed with ADHD isn't always easy especially when your GP is hesitant to refer you or has preconceived notions of what the disorder is. Despite the increasing awareness of the disorder, these prejudices remain and could prevent people from receiving a proper diagnosis. It is also important to understand that even if you pay for healthcare, it does not mean that they can bend the rules. Your healthcare professional must follow NICE guidelines for diagnosing ADHD.
If your GP refuses to send you to an ADHD assessment and treatment, you can seek out a private psychiatrist. He will assess you and prescribe medication, if required. The psychiatrist will also conduct a clinical interview with you to determine if your ADHD symptoms are impacting your life. The psychiatrist will ask questions about your history and family mental health issues to assess the severity of your ADHD symptoms.
A comprehensive ADHD report will be included in the private assessment and can be sent directly to your GP. It could also be used as evidence to justify claims for reasonable adjustments at work or Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) for students.