How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment is required. This is performed by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that could require some red tape like the requirement for old school records to be submitted. You can avoid the wait by scheduling an appointment for a private ADHD assessment directly through an online ADHD center.
What is an assessment that is private?
A private assessment of ADHD is a session where you sit down with an expert and discuss your symptoms, as well as how they impact your life. It typically requires two sessions, and is more thorough than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The process consists of an organized interview with an expert who will review your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also look at other issues with your mental health or neurological issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in different areas, like at work or in relationships.
It is crucial to understand that ADHD diagnosis isn't always easy. Many people diagnosed with the disorder have a mixed diagnosis. It is important to remember that the three most prominent symptoms are hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. In adults, hyperactivity typically appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity seen in children, and may be present as restlessness or constantly rushing around. Inattention can also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, staying organized or sitting for long periods of time.
If you believe that medication can alleviate your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will help you access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The best way to accomplish this is to talk to your GP and request that they refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment.
If your GP is unwilling to refer you, or is unable to make an immediate appointment you might want to change your GP. You might want to think about changing GPs if this is the situation. The Psychiatry UK website provides more information on how you can exercise your choice.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider, either through the NHS system or independently. private adhd assessments might not require a letter of referral from your GP but the majority of them do. Check with your chosen provider prior to making a booking.
How can I obtain a private assessment?
ADHD is a complicated mental condition that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may struggle to cope with the condition, which can lead to problems in many areas. A private ADHD assessment can help you to understand the impact of the symptoms on your life and can be useful in identifying how they could be managed.
There are a variety of providers who will perform an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You can exercise your right to select (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to make this request, you may want to find a different GP willing to do it.
Typically an assessment will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate, as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases the ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a meeting with a clinician, either in person or via video call. The typical time for this assessment is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult and are a patient, you will be asked about your current issues as well as your past struggles since childhood. The healthcare professional will consider whether you have any of the traits that are associated with ADHD hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. You will be asked to provide instances of when you showed these characteristics. The healthcare professional will then use this information to diagnose and suggest treatments.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness and don't want to wait for a referral from the NHS getting a private assessment may be beneficial. It is important to note that a private assessment does not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You'll still need to discuss this with them and if you decide to test medication it is recommended you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers if your doctor in England will refer you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments online and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a 'Right to Choose" procedure where you can ask for a referral to one of the specialists on their list. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to wait. There are also private providers that can provide a diagnosis quickly.
In general, it's best to find a specialist psychiatrist who has had experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one as they are not easily accessible. Some will require an GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an assessment however this is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess the symptoms of your condition but they cannot prescribe medications. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can help manage symptoms. However, they are unable to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to receive support services like Disabled Student's Allowance or reasonable adjustments in the workplace.
A specialist Psychiatrist can identify and explain your symptoms. They will also determine whether they are a result of ADHD and consider any other mental health issues you might have. Your Psychiatrist will be able to provide you with the most effective treatment if you're honest and forthcoming.
You'll need to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it might be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your physician. (You'll still have to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're thinking of paying for an private diagnosis, we would recommend you speak with your GP before you book an appointment, so that they know what you're doing and provide their consent if needed.
Participating in a support group is another option to get together with others who have ADHD and gain insight from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and inspiring. You can find online groups on Facebook and Reddit or look up local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
The recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private health clinics give unreliable diagnosis. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report suggested that the assessments were rushed and did not take into consideration all the symptoms or impact of ADHD on people's lives. It also raised concerns that patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments have no choice but to pay out of their own pockets to be diagnosed and receive medication.
There is no doubt that your doctor will recommend one of the leading private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory), but they will inform you that there could be a waiting time. This differs from provider to provider, but is typically approximately six weeks. Ask your family and friends for recommendations and conduct extensive research on the company. If you choose a well-established and reputable business, you'll probably have an easier time waiting than if you go to your GP.
During the assessment the psychiatrist will determine, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant impairment in your daily functioning. They will try to rule out any other causes such as thyroid, anxiety, depression or issues and will usually request evidence from a family member (sometimes by filling in forms about your childhood) and school reports, if necessary. This can be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or those who aren't successful in finding their childhood school reports.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional you may apply for disability benefits from your local authority. It is important to be aware that most GPs aren't likely to sign a contract known as a shared-care agreement when you were diagnosed by a private doctor and haven't been fully titrated to the final dose of medicine. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults with ADHD.