What to Expect From a Private ADHD Diagnosis
With NHS service waiting times for adult ADHD assessments at an all-time high many people are looking into private solutions. However, before you take this route, it's important to know what to expect.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation suggested that some private ADHD assessment clinics could be rushing assessments and prescribing powerful drugs without taking into account the patient' mental health background.
Waiting times
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis is a long process. In some parts of the country, patients may have to wait as long as four years to be seen by the NHS for an assessment. People who suffer from the condition and require help can go to private clinics, but must be prepared to pay for their services.
If you need an ADHD diagnosis fast, a private psychiatrist can help. The private psychiatrists are typically adept at treating adults with ADHD and are able to provide a reliable diagnosis within a short time frame. They can also be in a position to detect anxiety and depression as well as other co-morbidities which may be linked with ADHD. They may be able to prescribe medication, too.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation showed that private clinics in the UK are over-diagnosing ADHD in adults and prescribing the patients with medication. A reporter undercover posed as a patient in six private clinics in London. The reporter was instructed to answer all questions honestly but he didn't reveal to the medical professionals that he was in the clinic for an ADHD assessment. He admitted that he was having trouble at home and at work. The reporter also claimed to have difficulties falling asleep and losing weight.
Some of the private clinics he visited were not accredited by the NHS which is a requirement under the Mental Health Act. This means that they have to adhere to certain standards, such as the right to be aware of the risks and benefits with any treatment. They also must give an exact explanation of the costs of the treatment and how they will fund it.
Many doctors are reluctant to refer patients for an ADHD assessment. They may be concerned about the stigma attached to the disorder or fear that they will be pressured to prescribe medication. It's essential to locate a GP that will refer patients and is well-versed in the disorder.
Medication
A private psychiatrist's ADHD assessment can take anywhere from to thirty minutes. The cost of the assessment will depend on the area you live. It is worth comparing costs to find out which one is best for your budget. A thorough adult ADHD diagnosis is crucial if you want to get treatment for your symptoms. Find a clinic close to your home and a psychiatrist with extensive experience. This will ensure you have more ease of experience and superior outcomes.
private adhd assessments can prescribe the best treatment for ADHD. Generally, they will prescribe a medication called methylphenidate (Ritalin) or Atomoxetine. These are licensed medications in the UK, and they have been subjected to extensive testing. Furthermore they are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority. If you do not want to take medication, a psychiatrist may suggest alternative options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
The psychiatrist may send an exact copy of the report to you and your GP after you've been diagnosed as ADHD. This will allow you to prove your condition for insurance or other purposes. A letter from a psychologist may also help you qualify for the Disabled Student Allowance.
The process of getting an ADHD diagnosis on the NHS can be a long process. Most patients must wait months before they receive an appointment with an expert. This can cause frustration and anxiety, especially when the condition affects your work or social life. Private ADHD assessments can help you receive the treatment you require faster.
If you opt to have an individual ADHD assessment, the clinician should sign an agreement for shared care with your GP. This will enable you to pay the NHS prescription fee and obtain the medication you require. It is recommended to speak with your doctor before deciding to schedule a private assessment. Certain GPs will not offer this. If they are unable to take this step then you are able to return to the NHS.
CBT therapy
Despite the fact that CBT can be beneficial for many with ADHD however, medication is usually preferred. Prescription medications may carry dangers. For instance, the side effects could include anxiety and depression. Some patients might develop dependency on these medications. It is therefore important to consult an expert before beginning any treatment. A private psychiatrist can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and provide the most suitable treatment for your particular condition.
BBC Panorama's investigation has once again brought the poor quality of ADHD services in the UK to the forefront. The program highlighted how the NHS is failing to address the needs of people suffering from ADHD who are suffering from long waits for assessment and treatment. The fact that more people are suffering from this condition than ever before, and it can have devastating effects on their lives, isn't enough to address the issue.
Many people believe that private healthcare is more reliable than the NHS, but this isn't always case. Although private healthcare providers are paid a lot of money for their services, that doesn't mean they are allowed to bend the rules. They must nevertheless follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines. Additionally, they must also possess the required abilities, knowledge, experience, and training to diagnose and treat ADHD.
In England, the NHS offers an adult ADHD assessment service at a variety of locations including Maudsley Hospital in London. However, this service is limited and can be extremely frustrating for patients. The waiting times and the quality of the assessments can be a bit variable.
Psychiatrists are trained to assess patients for a variety of mental health problems, including ADHD. However many do not comprehend the condition and could overlook important signs. This could lead to confusion, which can be a serious issue for people who suffer from ADHD. This is the reason it's essential to find a specialist psychiatrist in treating ADHD.
Private therapists can diagnose ADHD for a nominal fee. This is a great way to avoid the long waiting times of NHS mental health services. It is important to know, however, that this type treatment is not covered by insurance.
Insurance
If you have private medical insurance, you might be interested in reviewing your policy's terms and conditions to see whether or not an ADHD assessment is covered. Axa PPP Aviva and Vitality state in their terms and conditions that they do not cover ADHD assessments. However, Bupa does offer cover.
It is important to remember that waiting times for private clinics can be very long and so can the time required to receive a correct diagnosis via the NHS. As such, many parents opt to go to private clinics to get rid of the red tape and reduce the time they wait.
Panorama has revealed that some private clinics also give unreliable diagnosis. But it's equally important to emphasize that this isn't something which needs to be tolerated. It's not a safe or logical practice, and it should be a national scourge for the UK.
If you have a private diagnose ensure that your GP will sign an agreement for shared-care with the NHS to cover medications. This way, you can receive a prescription for medication, but pay for the NHS prescription charge instead of the full price for it. A lot of GPs will be willing to allow this, but not all will, so it's recommended to first inquire.