How to Pay For a Private ADHD Assessment
ADHD is a very common condition that isn't easy to manage. A clear diagnosis can make a big difference in your life. It is crucial to remember that ADHD doesn't mean you cannot lead a successful life.
You can get a formally acknowledged diagnosis from a Psychiatrist or another "appropriately qualified healthcare professional" [Nice Guidelines]. This includes psychologists.
Cost
You can pay for your private ADHD assessment using a variety of different options. Psychiatry-UK offers a monthly direct debit option, and payment can also be made through private medical insurance (including Bupa and Aviva). You can also choose to fund your own assessment or medication. NHS funding is available for adult ADHD assessments under the Right to Choose scheme, which permits patients to select any provider that is clinically appropriate, as long as the Integrated Care Board or NHS England has a contract with them.
You will be evaluated by psychiatrists or an ADHD nurse specialist who has been trained to evaluate ADHD. They are the only healthcare professionals that can diagnose ADHD in the UK in accordance with the Nice guidelines.
During the test, you will be asked about your childhood and the past to determine if you satisfy the ADHD criteria. You will be asked to explain your symptoms and how they impact on you. The examination will take between 45 to 90 minutes.
If the doctor or nurse determines that you have ADHD they will inform you and discuss your treatment options. But, it is important to remember that you do not have to accept the diagnosis. If you disagree with the results you can consult a different medical professional to have your symptoms reassessed.
After the examination your doctor will then send you or your GP the written report. The report will include a description and impact of your symptoms, as well an agreed holistic treatment plan. This information can be used by your GP to decide what treatment you will receive.
Some doctors are willing to join a shared-care agreement that allows you to receive your medication via the NHS. This can save you money on the cost of your medication as you only have to pay the NHS prescription fee. Some GPs may not accept this arrangement, so you should check before booking an appt.
It is important to note that the NHS will only prescribe medication to adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD. If you're diagnosed as an adult with ADHD and are responsible for paying for your own assessment and any medication.
Time to wait
According to a report by the charity ADHD Action There is an 'waiting crisis' in the UK for ADHD assessments. According to the charity, many adults wait more than seven years before they are able to be assessed. The wait times are creating anxiety and frustration for people who suffer from ADHD. The condition is thought to be affecting 1.5 million people in the UK.
Some private companies offer ADHD assessments that are not recognized by the NHS. This means that you won't be in a position to access the associated medications through the NHS. If you're thinking about an assessment privately for ADHD, ensure that the psychiatrist is registered with the General Medical Council. Be aware that a private diagnosis will not give you the same protections in your workplace as a diagnosis that is recognised by the NHS.
Even though some private companies have shorter waiting times than the NHS they are not without problems. The BBC's investigation found that some private providers utilize unreliable diagnostic methods and provide incorrect diagnoses. This could lead to grave consequences for patients. Doctors are concerned that the current arrangements for ADHD assessments are not working, and want more ring-fenced funding to improve services.
Despite the fact that many GPs are overwhelmed by ADHD referrals, you must keep in mind that only a specialist is qualified to diagnose ADHD. This is why more people opt to consult a private doctor for their ADHD assessment. They can avoid the long waiting times for diagnosis, and also get a more accurate assessment and treatment plan.
A private ADHD assessment usually involves a series of appointments with the psychiatrist and a clinical nurse specialist. This may include an interview, observation, and questionnaires. Answering these questions correctly and honestly will help the Psychiatrist determine if you have ADHD. The Psychiatrist will then write a report that you can present to your GP.
If your Psychiatrist suggests that you get a prescription, you will be required to sign a shared care agreement with your GP. This means that you be responsible for the NHS prescription fee, but your GP is responsible for renewing the prescription and deciding on future treatments. This isn't a certain option, and some GPs are reluctant to share their services with private patients.
Experience
If you are an adult with ADHD and are diagnosed, it can be significant in understanding your issues and taking steps to address these issues. It is crucial to know what you're up against and the reasons you are unable to succeed at work, in relationships and in your home life. There are many people who struggle to receive an accurate diagnosis, and it is often difficult to find a doctor that can treat them.
Private providers can help you cut down on the time it takes to wait and make an appointment with a qualified ADHD expert. The typical assessment takes 45 to 90 minutes, and comprise an interview and discussion of your issues. You might be asked to provide some examples from your past to assist in the assessment process. During your appointment, the therapist will determine whether you meet the criteria needed to be diagnosed with ADHD.
Private healthcare professionals will not only evaluate your ADHD symptoms as well as your mental health and any other conditions that you might have. This will help them determine if you have other conditions that could hinder ADHD. You should be prepared to discuss these issues prior to the appointment because they will affect your treatment.
Untreated ADHD can cause issues in the workplace, with relationships, and general well-being. Untreated ADHD can lead to impulsive and inattentive behavior. It can also lead to depression, anxiety and other psychological issues. Therefore, it is crucial to seek proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as you notice any.
Currently, many adults who would like to be diagnosed with ADHD face long wait times for NHS assessments. The NHS is flooded with referrals, resulting in an overloaded system. It can take as long as an entire private adhd assessment year to be seen by an ADHD clinic. This can be a frustrating experience particularly for adults who have been struggling for a long time without knowing what was causing their issues.
This is the reason why many adults opt to have an individual ADHD assessment. Private ADHD assessments can be expensive however they can provide the answers you require and the confidence that you are being treated by a professional who is trained. Some private ADHD assessment providers also provide shared health care agreements with GPs. This could mean that your medication is only covered by the NHS.
Reputation
There is a growing concern that some private businesses are systematically diagnosing adult ADHD with low quality assessments and unqualified staff. BBC Panorama recently highlighted this issue. GPs are urged to refer people who think they may have ADHD to their specialist NHS Adult ADHD services. They should also be aware of the possibility that a patient might be misdiagnosed, and receive medications they don't require.
Only psychiatrists and ADHD nurses with specialized training can assess ADHD formally. Other mental health professionals, including counsellors, are not able to provide a diagnosis. However they can help you identify the signs and provide support. If you decide to get a private ADHD assessment, ensure that the psychiatrist or nurse is registered with the General Medical Council and on the specialist register. They must be able to prescribe medication that is only available after the diagnosis of psychiatric disorder is made.
A thorough ADHD assessment will require multiple appointments, observations, and tests. If your doctor recommends an ADHD assessment, select one with an excellent reputation. A good provider will spend time getting to know you and the context of your everyday life. The NHS website lists approved providers.