How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama programme this week has looked into the way that private clinics identify adults with ADHD.
The investigation has highlighted some troubling instances. But it also highlights the suffering of those who are stuck between two rocks in a difficult place.
The NHS has long waiting times for adult ADHD assessment. Many opt to pay for a private assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment can help you get the answers you need. ADHD symptoms are often mistaken for other disorders, and a correct diagnosis is vital for your health.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature are the primary symptoms of ADHD. These signs can cause problems at school, at work and in the home. The emotional well-being and relationships can be affected by these symptoms. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine if you have ADHD and will give you the treatment you require to live your life to the fullest.
It is crucial to find an independent ADHD assessor who will take the time needed to assess you individually. This is not a quick procedure, and the expert must be prepared to commit up to three hours at the assessment. During the examination, your doctor will be asking you to discuss how your ADHD symptoms affect your everyday functioning. Your specialist will also ask about your family history and any other mental health issues that you may have. They may also speak with your school or employer to get more information about your situation.
It is important that the healthcare professional conducting your personal ADHD assessment is a certified experienced and skilled psychiatrist. You will receive the top possible care. Private healthcare providers are subject to the same rules as NHS healthcare professionals, and should adhere to best practice guidelines issued by NICE.
It is also beneficial to bring any supporting documentation with you to the assessment. This could include medical and psychological records as well as letters from your GP or a questionnaire you have completed or the results of the ADHD test. private adhd assessment london are required by your doctor to evaluate your symptoms and determine the best method of treatment.
It is also important to be aware that medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what someone with ADHD looks like. This makes it difficult to establish a valid diagnosis. This is especially the case for those who are of colour, gender assigned at birth, or who are not native English people.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a nebulous disorder that can impact every aspect of the life of a person. private adhd assessment adults can impact the ability to concentrate, impulsivity, as well as working memory. A private adhd assessment can give a diagnosis and allow the patient to take control of their symptoms and improve their lives. An accurate diagnosis can help people find the right treatment to alleviate symptoms, lessen anxiety, and improve their lives.
Diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process which requires a thorough examination as well as medical history and questionnaires. GPs can diagnose ADHD at their discretion, but they have to take your concerns seriously. They will send you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales will be used to assess the symptoms of a person. It is essential that the healthcare professional who conducts your assessment has the necessary skills, knowledge and expertise to recognize ADHD. The best approach is to consult 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.
Some people fail to get the diagnosis that they require or deserve due to the stigma associated with mental health and ADHD. This is due to the fact that the GP may be reluctant to refer patients or due to an unfounded notion of what it means to have ADHD. It can be a challenge for adults to obtain a diagnosis since they don't always exhibit the typical symptoms of ADHD.
If you think you or your child may have symptoms of ADHD you should consider scheduling an appointment at a reputable private clinic such as Diverse Diagnostics. They offer online assessments for a range of neurodevelopmental disorders and can provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to speak with your GP and discuss the issues you're having at work, at home or in social situations. They should be attentive to your concerns and arrange to have you referred to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellness centers.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD differ from individual to individual however, they can involve 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. It is also important to consider whether you have other mental health issues that could affect your symptoms.
There are fears that certain private clinics are misdiagnosing people with ADHD. This was highlighted in an Panorama investigation that found an undercover reporter schedule appointments online with three private clinics, and receive powerful drugs following inaccurate virtual assessments. The undercover reporter responded to questions regarding his symptoms in a truthful manner, but did not tell the clinics that he was journalist.
It is essential that your test is performed by a healthcare professional with experience in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists, but also GPs and other healthcare professionals with specific expertise, knowledge of experience, and training in ADHD. It is not enough just to have an authorization to practice, or to be on the NHS register, to be considered an expert in ADHD.
During the ADHD assessment the doctor will talk through how you are feeling and what symptoms you are experiencing. The doctor will also ask you about any mental health concerns and your family history. It is important that you answer fully to these questions, since they are crucial to determining whether or not you have ADHD.
After your assessment, your clinician will discuss the next steps with you. This will likely include a decision on whether to prescribe medication and a plan for your care in the future and follow-up. If you wish you want to continue treatment as a privately-paying patient or return to the NHS for shared care.
It is important to be aware that if you have been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to get the medication you require on the NHS due to long waiting lists. The "Right to Choose" scheme has made it easier for adults living in England to get a private diagnosis and treatment, and it is recommended if you are struggling to wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment can help a teenager or child accept and understand their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. Adults who have suffered from ADHD symptoms for a long time and are affecting their relationships or work may also benefit from a professional ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions is an inter-disciplinary team comprising Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists located in the UK who have years of experience assessing children and adults suffering from ADHD. They offer a full ADHD assessment, including diagnosis and treatment recommendations that are in line with NICE guidelines. This assessment can be paid for with three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication prescribed by the clinician). Some private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, whereas others do not. Contact the provider to determine their policy is.