ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.
Panorama, a BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What happens if I don't get an appointment?
A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment and help you reduce the feeling of confusion and self-doubt. The diagnosis can help family members understand the condition and how it affects a person's daily life. This can lead to stronger relationships as well as a more educated approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK the first step is to speak with your GP and discuss why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to a specialist to conduct an assessment. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to select the plan that allows you to select your personal provider.
The next step is a comprehensive psychological assessment, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your assessment the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. The appointment is expected to last for about two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with should still adhere to evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when providing care for you.
If your doctor doesn't determine that you have ADHD the doctor should explain the reason. It could be because they don't think you meet the criteria for the disorder, or that they think other conditions better explain your characteristics (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't deter you from seeking an additional opinion.
Adults often struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals don't understand them. Some doctors may tell them that their troubles are due to an inability to work or they're lazy or negligent. It can be difficult, but be aware that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to obtain an 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 think that the patient is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the difference between ADHD, depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).
In some cases, medical staff who are unfamiliar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behaviour with their uncontrolled ADHD or assume that the person is suffering from anxiety or depression as a result of their unmanaged ADHD. Women suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to identify because their symptoms are often more subtle and difficult to recognize. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that aren't effective.
Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This process is not always straightforward, as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then immediately batted back by doctors) on bogus grounds.
diagnosed with adult adhd will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. This can include questions regarding your work, home and family life, based on the doctor. They will also discuss the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be best for you. Generally, clinicians will try stimulant medications first. However, in the event that this doesn't work for you, then a nonstimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send paperwork to your GP which outlines the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is referred to as a'shared-care agreement'. Some GPs will accept these agreements however not all of them. If your GP doesn't, you will need to continue to pay privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?
A mental health professional can help to develop a treatment program that is specific to the needs of each person. Early treatment is essential and could include talk therapy, medicine or lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD may be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggression or aversion towards other people or serious infringements of social norms and guidelines at home, school or with the peers.
What happens if you decide to drive?
Since the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it more difficult to get your driver's license. However it is only applicable in the event that your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your day-to-day living. This is something that you should discuss with your doctor.
Similar to having ADHD may affect how well you perform when driving particularly in the case of impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. As a result you may find that you struggle with organizing your car or remembering to take your medication before getting behind the wheel. If you're worried about this, you can opt to travel with a partner or only drive when there is no one else in the car.
The negative image of Panorama's private healthcare in ADHD assessments is evident. Many adults have shared with us that they received an diagnosis at a private clinic without any medication titration. They were then required go back to their GP to wait in line to undergo an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also adds to the stigma that surrounds a condition that makes many sufferers feel belittled by family members.