How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama show this week examined the ways in which private clinics diagnose adults suffering from ADHD.
The investigation has exposed some worrying cases. It also highlights the plight for people who are caught between a rock and an icy spot.
The NHS has long waiting periods for adults seeking an ADHD assessment. Many prefer to pay for a privately conducted assessment.
Symptoms
If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of ADHD If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment will help you find the answers you require. ADHD symptoms are often mistaken for other disorders, so the correct diagnosis is crucial to your overall health.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. These symptoms can lead to issues at school, at work and in the home. The emotional well-being and relationships are affected by symptoms. Private ADHD assessments will allow you to determine if you're ADHD and offer the treatment you require to live your best life.
It is crucial to locate an individual ADHD assessor who will spend the time to evaluate you individually. It is not an easy process, and the professional must be prepared to commit up to three hours at the assessment. During the assessment, your specialist will have you discuss how your ADHD symptoms affect your daily functioning. They will also discuss your family history as well as any other mental health issues that you may have. They may also talk to your employer or your school to get a better understanding of your situation.
It is important that the medical professional who is conducting your personal ADHD evaluation is a trained experienced psychiatrist. This will ensure that you receive the highest quality of care. Private healthcare providers are governed by the same regulations as NHS healthcare professionals, and must adhere to best practice guidelines issued by NICE.
Additionally, it's important to bring any supporting documents you've got during the assessment. This could include your medical and psychological documents, letters from your GP or a questionnaire you have completed or the results of the ADHD test. Your doctor must have these records to evaluate your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.
It is important to be aware that some doctors have preconceived notions of what a person with ADHD might look like. private adhd assessment adults can make it difficult to determine the correct diagnosis. This is especially true for people who are people of color, who is gender-specific at birth, or who are not native English speakers.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complicated disorder that can affect every aspect of a person's life. It affects how our brains function, which could impact concentration, impulsivity, and working memory. A private adhd assessment can provide a diagnosis and allow the patient to take control of their symptoms and live better lives. Finding a reliable diagnosis can help them find a form of treatment which can ease symptoms, decrease anxiety and improve their quality of life.
Diagnosis of adult ADHD is a process that requires a thorough examination of medical history, questionnaires and a thorough examination. The GP has discretion when it is time to diagnose ADHD but they'll need to be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment. Clinical interviews and validated rating scales will be used to evaluate the symptoms of a person. It is essential that the healthcare professional conducting your assessment has the necessary abilities, knowledge and experience to identify ADHD. The best approach is to consult a Psychiatrist, or an ADHD specialist nurse. However, healthcare professionals based in NHS clinics may also be considered as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines.
Sadly, the stigma of mental health and specifically ADHD means that some people aren't given the treatment they require or deserve. This could be due to the fact that a GP is reluctant to refer a patient or has a preconceived view of what ADHD looks like. Adults can also have difficulty being diagnosed, as they may not always show the typical symptoms of ADHD.
If you think that you or your child may have symptoms of ADHD, it is worth arranging for an assessment at a reputable private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics. They offer online assessments to diagnose a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. They also offer an adult ADHD diagnosis. In the beginning, you should talk to your GP regarding the difficulties you are experiencing at home, at work or in social settings. They should take you seriously and refer you to an ADHD specialist at one of the Priory hospitals or wellbeing centers.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD vary from one person to another however, they can involve medication or other forms of therapy like cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT). The type of treatment recommended will depend on the severity and symptom. You should also consider if you have any other mental health issues that could affect your symptoms.
Some private clinics may be incorrectly diagnosing ADHD. This was exposed in an Panorama investigation, which saw an undercover reporter schedule appointments online with three private clinics and receive powerful medications following unreliable assessments via virtual. The undercover reporter answered questions about his symptoms truthfully, but did not tell the clinics that he was journalist.
It is important that your assessment is performed by a healthcare professional who has expertise in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists but also GPs and other healthcare professionals with particular skills as well as experience and knowledge in ADHD. It is not enough to possess a licence to practice, or to be registered on the NHS register, to be considered an expert in ADHD.
During the ADHD assessment process, your doctor will talk through how you are feeling and what symptoms you are experiencing. They will also inquire about your family history of ADHD as well as any other mental health issues you might have. It is important that you answer fully to these questions, since they are key to determining whether or not you are suffering from ADHD.
After your evaluation is completed Your doctor will discuss with you the next steps. This will likely include a decision on whether to prescribe medication, and the plan for your future care and following up. You can choose to continue to receive treatment as a private patient or go back to the NHS (known as shared care) If you choose to do this.
You must be aware when you've been diagnosed with ADHD it may be difficult to access the medication you need on the NHS due to long waiting lists. The "Right to choose" scheme allows adults in England to receive a private diagnosis and treatment. This is recommended when you are unable to 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 changes to improve their lives. Adults who have struggled with ADHD symptoms for a long time and have been affecting their relationships or work may be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions is an inter-disciplinary team comprising Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists located in the UK who have extensive experience in assessing adults and children suffering from ADHD. They provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment, including diagnosis and treatment recommendations that are in line with NICE guidelines. The assessment can be paid for in three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication recommended by the clinician). Some private assessments do require a referral from a doctor and some don't. Check with your chosen provider to find out their policy.