ADHD Private Diagnosis
A GP may refer an adult with ADHD to a private health professional to receive an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
Panorama A BBC investigation has revealed that some clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and help reduce feelings of self-doubt and confusion. A diagnosis can help family members understand the symptoms and how it impacts the person's life. This could lead to better communication and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK You should first talk to your GP about the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you to an assessment with a specialist. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to sign up for a plan that allows you to select your own provider.
You will then undergo an extensive psychiatric examination that includes a detailed psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. A family member or friend along is always beneficial. After the assessment the specialist will present an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and give suggestions for treatment. Your appointment should last two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist for adhd can help you avoid the pitfalls of trying to obtain an diagnosis through the NHS. If you are receiving treatment, the healthcare professionals should still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you suffer from ADHD you should be told the reason. It could be that they don't think you meet the criteria for the disorder, or that they think an alternative condition is more likely to explain your behavior (symptoms). This is okay and shouldn't discourage you from seeking a different opinion.
One of the main reasons adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical professionals. They may be told their issues are the result of not trying hard enough or that they are negligent or lazy. It can be frustrating, but you should keep in mind that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific research.
What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD are unable to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or know how to identify it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal or think that the person is masking the symptoms. Certain GPs might be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health disorders like depression (everyone experiences depression at times) or anxiety (which can manifest with similar symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD may mistake the person's behavior as a sign of untreated ADHD or think that they suffer from depression or an anxiety disorder as a result. This can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easy to miss. This could lead to a mistreatment of symptoms with antidepressants and other medications that are not effective in treating ADHD.
Certain private assessment providers will require a referral from your GP before they can take you on for an appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred to, and then rejected by doctors).
The GP who examines you will be looking to ask some questions about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This may include questions about your home, work and family life, based on the provider. They will also go over the various types and strengths of medications available to treat ADHD and which may be best for you. Most clinicians will recommend stimulant medications however if they don't work for you, they might suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you receive a diagnosis, your clinician will send paperwork to your GP that outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is called a "shared care agreement". Some GPs accept these agreements but not all. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you will still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis but don't want 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 crucial and may include talk therapy or medication. It may also require lifestyle changes. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression towards other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at home, school or in the company of friends.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
ADHD Diagnosis as a disability. This could make it difficult to get your driving licence. This is only a possibility if your symptoms are having a long-term and significant impact on your daily life. This is something that you should discuss with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving, especially if you exhibit impulsivity and erratic driving behaviors. As a result you could find you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take your medication before getting behind the wheel. If you're concerned about this, opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no other person in the car.
Panorama's negative portrayal of private care in ADHD assessments is clear. Many adults have shared with us that they were given an diagnosis at private clinics without drug titration. They were then required return to their GP to wait in the line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't only discredit the NHS but also creates a stigma around an illness that many feel they are judged for, even by their own family.