ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private health specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that give inaccurate diagnoses. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What happens if I don't get an answer to my question?
A professional diagnosis can give you treatment options and help reduce feelings of confusion or self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the symptoms and how it affects the person's life. This can lead to better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss the reasons you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment with an expert. This process will be more efficient If you request your GP to refer you to a scheme that allows you to choose your personal provider.
The next step is a thorough psychotherapy evaluation, which includes an extensive interview and psychological test. It is always beneficial to bring a family member with you for assistance. After your assessment an expert will determine the cause of ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist for adhd who can diagnose can help you avoid the traps of trying to obtain a diagnose through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment the healthcare professionals must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your healthcare provider doesn't believe you have ADHD They should be able to explain the reasons. It could be that they don't believe that you meet their criteria for the disorder, or that they think other conditions better explain your characteristics (symptoms). This is okay and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosis for adhd diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals misunderstand them. Some doctors might inform them that their troubles are due to an inability to work or that they're lazy or incompetent. This can be extremely frustrating however it is important to keep in mind that these types of stereotypes are not based on scientific evidence.
What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get an diagnosis. Some GPs have poor awareness of the condition and may not be aware of what it is or how to get diagnosed with adhd uk to diagnose it. Others might dismiss the symptoms as normal or believe that the person is hiding them. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which may have similar symptoms).
In certain instances medical professionals who are unfamiliar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with that of their unmanaged ADHD or will think that the person is suffering from anxiety or depression because of their unmanaged ADHD. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and easier to miss. This could lead to a mistreatment of the symptoms using antidepressants and other medications that are not effective in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment companies require a letter of recommendation from your GP to schedule an appointment. This process can be complicated due to the fact that NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then promptly rejected by GPs).
The GP who evaluates you will ask some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the doctor the questions could be about your home, work and family. They will also talk about the various types and strengths of medications available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be most suitable for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medications first, but in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a nonstimulant drug like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.
Once you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send paperwork to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors will sign these agreements however, not all of them will. If your GP does not, you'll be required to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What is the next step if I am diagnosed but do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?
A mental health professional can create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs. Early treatment is essential and may include talk therapy, medicine, or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a form of aggression towards other people or severe violations of rules and social norms at school, at home or in the company of peers.
What happens if you decide to drive?
Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it harder for you to get your driver's licence. However, this is only in the event that your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your daily living. This is something that you would need to discuss with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance, especially if you exhibit inattention and unstable driving habits. As a result, you might find that you are having trouble organizing your car or remembering to take your medication prior to driving. If you are worried about this, you may opt to drive with a passenger or only drive when you know you'll be driving on your own in the car.
As you can see, the Panorama programme gave a very negative and biased perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they received a diagnosis in an private clinic with no medication adjustment. They had to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS and adds to the stigma of a condition that many people feel they are being judged for, even by their own family.