ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
BBC Panorama found that patients are diagnosed with diagnose adhd in private clinics and are prescribed powerful drugs after unreliable video calls. The undercover investigation was conducted after tips were reported. Dozens of patients and whistleblowers spoke to.
Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean that many people have no choice but to pay for a private examination. But is it really working?
Why do I require an individual diagnosis?
If you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD, it's important to find a professional who can evaluate your condition and provide the appropriate treatment. While a lot of people choose to use the NHS however, a private diagnosis can often be more effective and save you time and money in the end.
There are some concerns about the ability of the NHS to meet current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients are often waiting weeks or even months for an appointment, which can be a source of stress for those suffering. Many people think that the NHS assessment services are not as good as they could be.
In light of these issues it's not surprising that more adults are opting to seek an appointment with a private physician. However the BBC Panorama investigation has raised serious concerns about the quality of care offered by certain private clinics. The undercover programme reported that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone and telling patients that they were suffering from ADHD when, in reality, they did not.
A private assessment usually begins with a series screening questionnaires that you will be asked to fill out and submit to the clinician. The screenings are designed to determine whether you exhibit the symptoms of ADHD and are standardized. The results will assist the doctor to decide whether or not to attend an entire diagnostic appointment.
The clinician will then assess your medical background and family history, as and the impact of ADHD symptoms on your daily life. They will also conduct physical and cognitive tests. Based on your specific circumstances you will then be diagnosed with ADHD and given an outline treatment plan.
After you are diagnosed with ADHD your doctor will forward paperwork to your GP to request a shared-care agreement. This will enable you to continue to receive NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription charge) while also seeing your private therapist for ongoing appointments and CBT therapy if needed.
What happens if I don't get an answer to my question?
A correct diagnosis and the appropriate treatment can make a massive difference in the case of ADHD. The NHS can be slow and difficult when it comes to diagnosing ADHD. Many adults are unable to wait this long and turn to private specialists for their assessment. This can save you time and stress, but it is important to note that it doesn't guarantee an accurate diagnosis.
A professional who has expertise in diagnosing adhd diagnosis for adults can give more detailed evaluations than a psychiatrist working for the NHS. This could include a physical exam and tests such as hearing and vision. It will also include questionnaires and check-lists. The person who conducts the assessment will also inquire about your family medical and social history and your symptoms. They may also use the standard ADHD scales for rating, and may ask your teachers or caregivers to rate you.
When evaluating adults with ADHD, the healthcare professional will look for five or more symptom over six months that are severe enough to interfere with work or home life. They will also check if these symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. For instance, depression and anxiety can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. They will also assess your work and social life history to rule out problems like financial hardship or an abuse history, and alcohol or drug misuse.
During your NHS assessment during your NHS assessment, you will be informed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare professional if you do not meet the criteria for adhd diagnosis in adults uk. They will also explain why they think you are not and you are able to request a new assessment if you are not satisfied with their conclusion.
People who receive an official diagnosis of ADHD can choose to share the diagnosis adhd adults with their GP, and the GP can send them back for shared management under the NHS. This is how some adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD receive medication. However, GPs are known to be reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication because they aren't experts in the disorder and because it's costly.
What is my next step if I disagree with my diagnosis?
It's worth remembering that your doctor must be respectful and empathetic to your concerns and feelings. They'll understand that untreated ADHD symptoms can cause significant difficulties for people and families. If your doctor isn't happy with the diagnosis, they may be able suggest alternative treatment options or diagnoses that might be more suitable for you.
If your doctor determines that you do not meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis They will provide the reasons for this. You may have not provided enough information about your issues or they might believe that another condition better explains your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with the decision, you can seek another opinion from a different clinician or follow the NHS complaints procedure.
It is important to be aware that your physician may find the assessment process frustrating, whether you choose private care or NHS care. The NHS is stretched to its limits and it's not the fault of the individuals affected.
GPs also face challenges in navigating the complicated diagnosis process for ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence generally). They must be sure they offer a high-quality service that is both safe and fair, and meet the prescriptions for shared care as outlined by the GMC.
Panorama's exposé has revealed that private clinics use techniques for diagnosing problems that are not as thorough, and could put patients at risk. This is a national catastrophe and a valid reason to consider alternative options.
It is also important to note that the stigma associated with being diagnosed with ADHD can make it difficult for certain people to be given a diagnosis. This is particularly true if they are ethnically minorities or were born female or have other social and health situations that could affect how medical professionals assess the symptoms they have.
We can help you if feel your life is negatively affected by unmanaged ADHD symptoms. Our specialists have experience diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment for your difficulties. You can request an appointment on our website or give us a an email to find out how adhd diagnosed we might be able to assist you.
What is the next step if I don't wish to take a medication?
If you are concerned about ADHD symptoms but do not wish to take medication, it's possible to receive a diagnosis without taking medication. The NHS provides an adult ADHD assessment service and you can request an appointment with your GP to be assessed at one of the specialist centres in England, or through the 'Right to choose option which is a lot quicker.
Your appointment will include a validated assessment as well as a medical interview and an online questionnaire. This will enable your doctor to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and what impact they have on your daily life. The clinician will consider your previous experiences as well as your family history. It is essential to provide truthful and accurate answers.
If the doctor determines that you meet all of the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, they will be able to provide you with a diagnosis. You will be asked if would like to discuss the possibility of taking medication. It is essential to consider the consequences of taking any medication before making a decision. The effects of medications are long-lasting, and may cause serious adverse effects in the event of a misjudgment.
If you decide to take medication, your doctor will provide you with an outline of the treatment and a prescription. You could be prescribed ADHD medication for a prolonged period of time, based on the severity of your symptoms and the length of time you've been experiencing them. However, it is also important to keep in mind that there are alternatives to medication to help manage ADHD symptoms, like diet, exercise and cognitive behaviour therapy.
The BBC Panorama "expose" of private clinics that treat ADHD has caused controversy, in particular because it suggests people are being misdiagnosed as a result inadequate clinical assessments. We hesitate to claim that this doesn't happen because humans are inexact creatures, and psychiatry rarely qualifies as a science. However, if you're struggling with ADHD symptoms and are being let down by the NHS waiting times, then it is possible to get a private assessment.