What to Expect From a Private ADHD Diagnosis
With NHS service waiting times for adult ADHD assessments at an all-time high, a lot of people are considering private options. But before you go this route it is important to be aware of what to expect.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation suggested that some private ADHD assessment clinics might be performing assessments in a hurry and prescribing powerful medications without considering the patient their mental health history.
Waiting times
It takes a long time to get an ADHD diagnosis. In certain parts of the country, patients are able to wait for up to four years before being seen by the NHS for an assessment. Private clinics can help those who need it but they must be able to pay for it.
If you require an ADHD diagnosis quickly an experienced private psychiatrist can help. The private doctors are usually experienced with adults who have ADHD and can provide an accurate diagnosis within a short time frame. They can also test for co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that are often linked to ADHD. They may also be able prescribe medications.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation showed that certain privately-run clinics in the UK are over-diagnosing ADHD for adults and prescribing the patients with medication. An undercover reporter posed as a patient at six private clinics in London. The reporter was asked to answer questions truthfully however, he did not tell the medical professionals that he was there for an ADHD diagnosis. He told them that he had issues at home and at work. The reporter stated that he was having trouble falling asleep, and also lost weight.
Some of the private clinics that he visited weren't recognized by the NHS. This is a requirement that is based on the Mental Health Act. This means that they have to comply with certain standards, such as the right to know the risks and benefits with any treatment. They must also provide an exact description of the expenses of the treatment and how they will fund it.
Many GPs are reluctant to refer patients to an ADHD assessment. They may be concerned about the stigma associated with the disorder or that they'll be pressured to prescribe medication. It's important to find an GP who will refer you to a specialist and who has a good knowledge of the condition.
Medication
A private psychiatrist's ADHD assessment can take anywhere from to 30 minutes. The cost for the assessment will differ based on where you live however it's worth comparing costs to determine what's the most cost-effective for your budget. If you want to treat your symptoms, an extensive adult ADHD diagnosis is necessary. Find a clinic near your home and a psychiatrist with extensive experience. This will ensure that you get more ease of experience and superior outcomes.
A private psychiatrist can prescribe the right medication for ADHD. They will usually prescribe methylphenidate or atomoxetine. These are approved medications in the UK, and they have been tested extensively. Moreover they are controlled by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority. If you are not comfortable with the idea of taking a medication, your doctor might suggest alternatives, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
After you have been diagnosed with ADHD, the psychiatrist can write an email to your GP and send you an electronic copy of your diagnosis. This will allow you to prove that you have ADHD to be able to claim insurance benefits or for other reasons. A letter from a psychiatrist may help you qualify for the Disabled Students Allowance.
It takes a long time to receive an ADHD diagnosis from the NHS. Most patients must wait for months to receive an appointment with a specialist. This can cause anxiety and stress, especially if the condition affects your work and social life. Private ADHD assessments can help you receive the help you require quicker.
If you opt to have a private ADHD evaluation, the therapist will provide you with paperwork to sign a shared-care arrangement with your GP. This will permit you to pay the NHS prescription fee and receive the medications you need. You should consult your GP before you decide to have an assessment in private. Some GPs won't perform this. If they do not agree to do so, you can always go back to the NHS or go to a different clinic.
CBT therapy
Despite the fact that CBT can help many people with ADHD, medication is often preferred. However, there are a few risks that come with prescription drugs. Depression and anxiety are two of the possible adverse reactions. Some patients may even develop dependency on these medications. Therefore, it is essential to talk to a doctor before starting any treatment. A private psychiatrist can identify your condition with precision and recommend the best treatment.
The poor provision of ADHD services across the UK has been put in the spotlight once more after an BBC Panorama investigation. The show highlighted the fact that the NHS is failing to address the needs of those suffering from ADHD who are facing long waits to be assessed and treatment. The fact that more people suffer from this condition than ever before, and it can have devastating effects on their lives, is not enough to address the issue.
Many people believe that private healthcare is more reliable than the NHS, but this isn't always the situation. Even though private healthcare providers receive an enormous amount of money in exchange for their services, that does not mean they are allowed to bend the rules. They must still follow the National Institute of Clinical Excellence Guidelines and adhere to established practices. They should also possess the required skills, knowledge and experience to diagnose and manage ADHD.
In England in England, the NHS offers an adult ADHD assessment service at a variety of locations including Maudsley Hospital in London. However, this service is limited and can be very frustrating for patients. The waiting times and the quality of assessments can also be a bit variable.
Psychiatrists are trained to examine patients for a variety of mental health issues, including ADHD. Some doctors may not understand the disorder in full and may miss important signs. This can lead to a misdiagnosis which is a serious issue for people with ADHD. This is the reason it's essential to find a psychiatrist who specialises in treating ADHD.
Private therapists can diagnose ADHD for a nominal fee. This is a great method to avoid the lengthy waiting times of NHS mental health services. However, you must be aware that this type of treatment is not covered by insurance.
Insurance
Check your insurance terms and conditions to determine if an ADHD assessment is covered. Axa PPP Aviva and Vitality stipulate in their terms and condition that they do not cover ADHD assessments. Bupa provides coverage.
It is important to know that it may take a long time to get a diagnosis through the NHS, and that even with private clinics, waiting times can be lengthy. Many parents choose private treatment to avoid bureaucracy and cut down on their waiting time.
Panorama has revealed that a few private clinics also give unreliable diagnosis. It's important to point out that this isn't something that needs to be tolerated. It's not a smart or safe practice, and it should be a scandal for the UK.
It's also important to remember that if you do have an unofficial diagnosis it is important to confirm that your doctor is willing to sign a shared-care agreement with the NHS for prescriptions. You can still obtain prescriptions for medication, but you will only pay the NHS prescription fee instead of the full amount. Some doctors are happy to do this, but not all. It is best to confirm first.