private adhd assessment - Getting the Right One From the NHS
The NHS requires that patients undergo a thorough evaluation for an accurate ADHD diagnosis. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics may be distributing inaccurate diagnoses and prescriptions.
A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms, their severity, duration and impact. The clinician will interview and analyze the patient's medical, psychiatric and family medical history.
Diagnosis
Adults who experience symptoms that they believe could be ADHD should seek out a diagnosis to determine the appropriate treatment and gain control of their life. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or have been told by a family member or friend that a member suggest they might have it, obtaining the right diagnosis can allow them to find the appropriate treatment and help to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The first thing that patients should do is discuss their concerns with an GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they affect your daily routine. The doctor will recommend them to a skilled mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing ADHD. This specialist should be an experienced psychiatrist who has had specialist training in the area. This is essential because it lets the psychiatrist be confident that they're applying the correct criteria to diagnose ADHD.
The psychiatrist will interview the patient and may ask them to bring in their partner, or close family members and friends who know them well. They'll also have to consider the patient's medical and mental background from childhood to now. They will also be looking at the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient's daily life. There isn't a blood test or brain scan that can be used to confirm an ADHD diagnosis Therefore, the psychiatrist will need to assess all the available information.
If the psychiatrist feels that the patient doesn't meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnoses and will then discuss their reasons. It could be that the patient didn't give enough details about their issues or another medical condition is more responsible for their behavior than ADHD. It could also be that the doctor believes that the patient's problems stem from something else, rather than ADHD.
Some people have a harder in obtaining a diagnosis due to the prejudices of certain healthcare experts. This is especially the case when they are an individual of color, assigned female at birth, or are not an English speaker. However there is an increasing awareness of this problem and the NHS is working to address it.
Assessment
If you're concerned that you might have ADHD you should seek an assessment from a health healthcare professional who is skilled in conducting these tests. You may ask your physician for a referral or consult with local medical schools or hospitals to find out which professionals are qualified for an ADHD assessment for adults. You can also contact an individual from your local ADHD support group for recommendations.
A diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the amount of, severity and duration of symptoms that impact specific areas of your life. This could include work, school and relationships. You may experience problems with regards to not performing in your education or at work, difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, or being forgetful or unorganized. It is crucial to talk about these issues openly and not hold back from the fear of being criticized.
There are a myriad of healthcare professionals who can carry out an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultant psychiatrists. To provide a formal diagnosis of ADHD it must be performed by a qualified Psychiatrist or a Special Nurse who is a Prescriber Qualified. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to treat symptoms of ADHD.
You will usually be interviewed during an ADHD evaluation and it is essential to bring someone from your family to offer support or to show evidence. It is beneficial to write the symptoms you experience and how they affect your life. The doctor will ask questions to learn about your history and present functioning. They will also check you to determine if you have any medical conditions that may be causing your ADHD symptoms.
You can also obtain an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take some time due to the long NHS waiting lists. Some people prefer to pay out of their own pocket for a private assessment and treatment via the 'Right to Choice route. However it is essential to remember that the quality of care from private practitioners varies widely and that it is essential to choose your provider carefully.
Medication
If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD as an adult it is a great idea to have a complete and thorough assessment. This will allow you to get the right medication and support you need to manage your symptoms. There are many private providers of this service, but if you choose to go this route, it is important to investigate the reputation of your chosen psychiatrist and their expertise and training in dealing with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In recent months, a variety of celebrities have spoken out about their struggles with ADHD. Sue Perkins, the host of Great British Bake Off, was diagnosed with ADHD in her 50s. She said that this diagnosis "made everything seem more rational". NHS waiting lists are still crowded despite increased awareness.
In the end, GPs are often reluctant to refer patients to specialist services for a private diagnosis of ADHD. This is partly because they lack the time and in some instances they may not be able to locate a doctor who is skilled in neurodevelopmental disorders. In some areas, this is made worse by the fact that NHS staff are often tasked with other care needs such as mental health assessments.
There is also a perception among some private companies that offer ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, and this can have devastating consequences for some people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue, and there is a real need to increase access to specialist ADHD assessments.
If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it with a combination of therapy for behavioural issues and medication. The stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine can be utilized to enhance the ability to control impulses and attention, while slower acting non-stimulants like atomoxetine are helpful in enhancing focus and productivity.
Some patients opt for the behavioural approach and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care could be formulated at Priory. This includes a detailed medical report, as well as a titration for the final dose, which could be shared with your GP.
Post-diagnostic treatment
A diagnosis of ADHD can have significant financial and human costs. It is important to provide a psychiatric examination and treatment program for all adults with ADHD. This should include medication, psychological and practical support and family therapy when appropriate. This should also extend to workplace and family education on how to better manage and assist an adult with ADHD in their daily lives.
The first step is to interview with an expert in mental health care who is trained to assess ADHD and related conditions. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health concerns they have to the initial appointment. The interview will look into the patient's medical and psychiatric history and their family history. It will also discuss the impact of ADHD on the person's daily life and relationships.
In this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms are in line with the criteria for ADHD that are defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must manifest in two different environments (home or at work) of the person's daily life. It should interfere with the person's normal functioning and cause distress. This can be in the form of difficulties in securing a job, dealing with marriage or finances, problems in school or their general quality of life.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists know the way that brains work however they are not able to prescribe medication, and cannot recommend counseling. Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat ADHD and prescribe medication if necessary.
If the Psychiatrist determines that the person has ADHD requires medication, they will prescribe a prescription to local pharmacists. This is under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist, and should be completed in three months following the private assessment. This will allow the patient to fully titrate into their final dosage of medication. If the GP is in agreement to continue prescribing ADHD medication on the NHS following the private ADHD evaluation, the Psychiatrist can provide a comprehensive report with treatment recommendations. They can also draft the Shared Care Agreement.