ADHD Private Diagnosis
A GP may refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private health specialist for an assessment. This can be done either in person or by video chat.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has exposed clinics that offer incorrect diagnoses. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What happens if I do not get a diagnosis?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you access to treatments and decrease feelings of self-doubt or confusion. A diagnosis can also help family members better know the symptoms and how it affects the person's daily routine. This could lead to better communication and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK the first step is to consult with your GP and discuss why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert for an assessment. This process will be quicker If you request your GP to use a scheme that allows you to choose your preferred provider.
The next step is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, which includes a detailed interview and psychological test. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After the assessment the doctor will give an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. Your appointment should last two sessions.
Getting a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS. adhd diagnosis in adult ADHD Diagnosis work with should still adhere to evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.
If your doctor does not find that you have ADHD you should be told why. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals misunderstand them. Some doctors may tell that their issues are due to an inability to work or that they are lazy or incompetent. This can be extremely disappointing However, it is important to keep in mind that these stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.
What happens if I disagree?
Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not understand what it is or how to diagnose it. Some might ignore the signs or believe that the patient is hiding the signs. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone gets down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
In some instances, medical staff who aren't familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behaviour with their uncontrolled ADHD or will think that the person is suffering from anxiety or depression because of their unmanaged ADHD. This is especially challenging for women with ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easy to overlook. This can result in inappropriate treatment of the symptoms using antidepressants or other medicines that are not helpful in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This can be a difficult process as NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to, and then promptly rejected by doctors).
The GP will ask you questions about your life, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Based on the provider, this can include questions about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of medications available to treat ADHD, and what may be the best for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medications first, but should this not work for you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.
Once you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send a letter to your GP that outlines the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Certain doctors will sign these agreements however not all will. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you'll still need to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What is the next step if I am diagnosed, but I do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?
A mental health professional can help create a treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs. Early treatment is essential, and it may include therapy, medication or lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD can also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern or aggression towards others or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at home, school or in the company of the peers.
What happens if you want to drive?
Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having the condition can make it more difficult for you to get your driver's license. However, this is only in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your daily living. You would need to discuss this with your physician.
Similar to having ADHD could affect how you perform when driving, especially in the case of an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. In the end you may find that you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, choose to travel with someone else or only drive when there is no other person in the car.
The negative portrayal by Panorama of private healthcare in ADHD assessments is apparent. We hear from a lot of adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration, and then must return to their GP and wait in the back of the line to undergo an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into an private clinic. This doesn't only discredit the NHS, it increases the stigma associated with an illness that many feel they are being judged for, even by their own family.