Activity

ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their doctor 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 highlighted some clinics that offer incorrect diagnoses. This puts patients at risk.

What happens if adhd diagnosis uk adults don’t get an answer to my question?

A diagnosis from a professional will grant you access to treatment and can aid in reducing feelings of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can help family members understand the condition, and how it impacts the life of a person. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK In the UK, first speak to your GP about why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and send you to an expert to conduct an assessment. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your own provider.

The next step is a comprehensive psychological assessment, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. It is a good idea to bring a family member with you for assistance. After your assessment the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. Your appointment should last two sessions.

Getting a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when trying to get an appointment with the NHS. The healthcare professionals you work with should still adhere to evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.

If your healthcare provider does not find that you suffer from ADHD you should be told the reasons. It could be because they don’t believe you meet their criteria for the disorder, or they believe an alternative condition is more likely to explain your characteristics (symptoms). This is fine and shouldn’t deter you from seeking an additional opinion.

One of the primary reasons that adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical experts. They may be told their problems are a result of not trying hard enough or that they are negligent or lazy. It can be difficult, but be aware that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific research.

What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?

Many people with ADHD struggle to get an diagnosis. Some doctors are unaware of the condition and may not be aware of the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal or think that the person is hiding these symptoms. Some GPs may also be confused by the differences between ADHD and other mental health conditions such as depression (everyone is down at times) or anxiety (which may present with similar symptoms).

Some medical staff unfamiliar with ADHD might mistake the patient’s behavior as a sign of untreated ADHD or believe that they are suffering from anxiety or depression disorder due to it. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD who’s symptoms may be more subtle and easier to overlook. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.

Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to schedule an appointment. This process is not always straightforward, as NHS GPs can bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then immediately batted back by GPs) on bogus grounds.

The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. This may include questions about your work, home, and family, depending on the service provider. They’ll also discuss the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be best for you. Most doctors will recommend stimulant medications but if they find it doesn’t work for you, they might suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

Once you’ve been diagnosed and the doctor will write to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and the way in which that you be treated. This is known as a “shared care agreement”. Certain doctors accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP does not, you will need to continue to pay privately for your appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I am diagnosed but do not want to undergo medication or another treatment?

A mental health professional can assist to develop a treatment program that is specific to the needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and could include therapy or medicine. It could also involve lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a form of aggression towards other people or serious violations of rules and social norms at school, at home, or among peers.

What happens if you want to drive?

As the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having the condition could make it harder for you to obtain your driver’s license. However, this is only if your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your daily living. This is something you’ll need to discuss with your physician.

In the same way, having ADHD can affect how you perform when driving particularly in the case of an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. You may find it difficult to arrange your car or remember to take your medication prior to driving. If you’re concerned about this, opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no anyone else in the vehicle.

As you can see it, the Panorama program provided a negative and biased perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they had received a diagnosis in an private clinic with no drug adjustment. They had to return to their GP to wait in the line to undergo an NHS assessment. This doesn’t just discredit the NHS, it creates a stigma around a condition that many people believe they are judged by even by their family members.