How a Private ADHD Assessment Can Help
The BBC's Panorama program this week has investigated the way some private clinics diagnose adults with ADHD.
The investigation has revealed alarming incidents. It also highlights the plight for those who are between a rock and a hard place.
The waiting times for adult ADHD assessments on the NHS are long. Many prefer to pay for a privately-run assessment.
Signs and symptoms
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of ADHD, a private ADHD assessment can help you get the answers you require. ADHD symptoms could be misinterpreted as other conditions. A correct diagnosis is crucial to your health.
The main symptoms of ADHD are hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. These signs can cause issues at school, working and at home. These symptoms can affect relationships and emotional well-being. Private ADHD assessments will help you determine the signs of ADHD and will give you the treatment you require to live your life to the fullest.
If you're looking for a private ADHD assessment it is important to find one that will be able to evaluate your personal needs. It is not an easy process, and the professional must be prepared to commit up to three hours during your assessment session. During the assessment, your specialist will ask you to talk about how your ADHD symptoms impact your daily functioning. They will also discuss your family history and any other mental health issues you may have. They may also wish to discuss your situation with your school or employer to better understand your situation.
It is important that the medical professional who is conducting your personal ADHD evaluation is a trained experienced psychiatrist. private adhd assessment london will ensure you receive the highest quality of care. Private healthcare providers are subject to the same rules as NHS healthcare professionals, and should adhere to the best practice guidelines that are published by NICE.
It is also beneficial to bring any supporting documents with you to the assessment. This could include medical records and psychological reports as well as letters from your GP or questionnaires you have completed. Your specialist will need to have these documents to be able to assess your symptoms and recommend a course of treatment for you.
It is important to be aware that some doctors have preconceived notions of what someone suffering from ADHD might look like. This can make it difficult to determine a proper diagnosis. This is particularly the case for those who are people of color, who is gender-specific at birth, or are not native English people.
Diagnosis
ADHD is a complex condition that can affect the entire life of an individual. It affects the way that our brains function, which could impact the ability to concentrate, impulsivity and memory. A private adhd assessment can help identify the cause and allow the patient to take control of their symptoms and live better lives. A clear diagnosis can allow them to find an appropriate treatment option that can ease symptoms, decrease anxiety and improve their lives.
The process of diagnosing adult ADHD requires a thorough medical history, questionnaires, and an extensive physical exam. Doctors can diagnose ADHD at their discretion, but they must take your concerns seriously. They will recommend you to an assessment. The symptoms of an individual will be assessed through clinical interviews and a number of validated rating scales. It is vital that the healthcare professional who conducts your assessment has the necessary abilities, knowledge and experience to recognize ADHD. A Psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse is ideal, but healthcare professionals who are based in an NHS clinic could be suitable as they are regulated by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
The stigma surrounding mental health and specifically ADHD results in some sufferers are not given the diagnosis they need or are entitled to. This is due to the fact that the GP might be reluctant to refer them or because of a preconceived idea about what it looks like to be diagnosed with ADHD. It is also difficult for adults to receive a diagnosis since they may not have the typical signs of ADHD.
It is recommended to arrange an appointment with a reputable private clinic like Diverse Diagnostics, if you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD symptoms. They offer online assessments for a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and can provide an adult ADHD diagnosis. The first step is to talk with your GP and describe the difficulties you're having at home, work or in social settings. They should consider you a serious case and refer you to an ADHD specialist in one of the Priory Hospitals or Wellbeing Centres.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD differ from one person to another however, they can involve medications or other types of therapy, such as cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT). The type of therapy recommended will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity. It is also essential to determine if you suffer from any other mental health problems which could be affecting your symptoms, and to take these into account when deciding on the most effective course of treatment.
There are concerns that private clinics may be misdiagnosing patients with ADHD. Panorama's investigation has revealed that an undercover journalist was able make appointments online at three private clinics and receive effective medication after a lack of trust in the virtual assessments. The journalist who was undercover answered questions honestly about his symptoms, but he did not inform the clinics that he was a reporter.
It is essential that your evaluation is performed by a healthcare specialist with experience in ADHD. This includes psychiatrists as well as GPs and other healthcare professionals who have specific knowledge, skills and experience in ADHD. To be considered an ADHD specialist, it is not enough to have an official license to practice or to be on the NHS Register.
During the ADHD assessment your doctor will go about how you feel and the symptoms you're experiencing. They will also inquire about your family history of ADHD, and any other mental health issues you may have. It is important that you provide the most complete answers to these questions, since they are essential to determine whether or not you have ADHD.
After your assessment Your doctor will then discuss the next steps with you. This will likely involve a decision about whether to prescribe medication and a plan for your care in the future and follow-up. You can choose to continue to receive treatment as an individual patient or back to the NHS (known as shared care) If you choose to do so.
You must be aware If you've been diagnosed with ADHD it can be difficult to obtain the medication you need on the NHS due to the long waiting lists. The "Right to Choose" scheme allows adults in England to obtain a private diagnosis and treatment. This is a good option when you are unable to wait for an NHS appointment.
Support
A private ADHD assessment helps a teenager or child recognize and accept their diagnosis, and make positive lifestyle modifications to improve their quality-of-life. Adults who have suffered from ADHD symptoms for many years and are affecting their relationships or work may be able to benefit from a specialized ADHD assessment.
RTN Mental Health Solutions has a multidisciplinary team consisting of UK based Chartered Clinical Psychologists and Therapists who have extensive experience in assessing children and adults with ADHD. They provide a comprehensive ADHD assessment with diagnosis and treatment recommendations in accordance with NICE guidelines, which can be paid for in three or five payments of PS195 (excluding any medication suggested by a clinician). Certain private assessments require the submission of a GP referral letter, while others do not. Check with your chosen provider for their policies.