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ADHD Assessment in the UK An ADHD assessment is usually an extremely thorough process. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other illnesses such as thyroid or depression. They may also request old school records and other supporting evidence. It is important that the person performing your assessment is an expert in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultants as well. Waiting at various times In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that ADHD is recognized as a serious mental health issue and that it has significant effects on people's lives. The situation is worse in some areas, with waiting times up to four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent actions to improve the situation. The problem is being exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition, as well as a rise in demand for treatments. NHS services are struggling with demand and many patients choose to take care of themselves through private providers. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to pick private healthcare providers. One of these services is Psychiatry UK, which operates an online ADHD assessment and medication service for the NHS across the country. It has seen an explosion in the number of people seeking an assessment, which is currently exceeding its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more experienced in dealing with adults and are better equipped to comprehend the nuances of ADHD. They are more likely to be experienced in managing co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression that are often associated with ADHD. Many people are still concerned about the quality of private assessments, and the potential for them to misdiagnose the illness. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following due process. Some have claimed that the program is propagating stigma and stereotypes about people suffering from ADHD. The BBC should be commended however, for exposing this problem and highlighting adults who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people who require this assistance are being forced to seek it out privately and the NHS needs to work out ways to deal with the issue. In the meantime, if you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD, you can try a free screening with a charity or request an assessment from a private psychiatrist. These are usually cheaper than the NHS but do not include a prescription. Second opinion It is important to seek out a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis can assist you in managing your symptoms and also prescribe medications. You may be directed to a psychiatrist for additional treatment. There are a variety of private clinics that provide diagnosis and titration treatments. These clinics have lots of experience dealing with a diverse range adults, including women and men, who might suffer from ADHD. They can also test for co-morbidities, such as depression and anxiety. Private ADHD assessments can be costly however they are typically more efficient than NHS waiting times. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then arrange subsequent appointments if required. These appointments will be covered by your insurance plan if you have it. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who have been trained and have a special interest ADHD. Initial appointments typically include clinical interviews as well as rating systems. You may also be asked to complete questionnaires and you could be referred to further tests like an MRI or EEG. You can expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time as well as titration costs. Certain private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and are less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires more appointments. The BBC's Panorama investigation has revealed that one patient waited for three years to receive an NHS assessment, before turning to a clinic in desperation. The BBC investigation revealed a variety of instances where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD, which was later removed. This is a serious problem because it can be extremely stressful for patients to have their symptoms wrongly diagnosed and prescribed medications with adverse side effects. In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and includes the initial assessment as well as the titration. Most health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worth checking to see whether you are covered. Referral to a specialist clinic If your GP suggests a specialist clinic the clinician will ask you questions and perform an evaluation of your clinical condition. They will assess whether your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they match the criteria for diagnosis of the condition. They will also check for co-morbidities, or any other mental health issues. Often, these will be depression and anxiety. The doctor will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if needed. During an assessment the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history as well as current issues at home and at work. They will also inquire about any medications that you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you must bring an experienced family member or friend along to provide collateral information. It usually takes a few sessions to determine the diagnosis. IamPsychiatry will provide a comprehensive evaluation, while others will only look at specific symptoms. The ineffectiveness of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny in the wake of an Panorama investigation. Undercover reporter for the programme was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, but his doctor said he didn't have it. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of “over-diagnosis” by private firms. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further investigation or prescribe medication when they adhere to strict guidelines. Many doctors will not sign a shared care agreement with the NHS and is the only way that they can transfer the patient's care to the service following a private diagnosis. They feel they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Also, GPs should be aware that many private psychiatrists will not prescribe medication, which may make it difficult for their patients to receive the treatment they require. Request your GP to refer you to an ADHD evaluation if they haven't already. You can determine the estimated waiting time by contacting your local mental health service or by visiting the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service which will be provided by NHS. Confirmation of diagnosis A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. It not only helps individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them as well as their family and friends better assist them. It also assists them to find the right treatment plan. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always easy. In the UK people must wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many people who are seeking to be diagnosed as having ADHD. If you are unable to wait, you can self-refer to psychiatrists who specialize in private evaluation. This will save you time and the hassle of visiting your GP. This is not a quick process and can take a long time however, it will provide you with an accurate diagnosis than the NHS one. You should ensure that the person conducting your test is either a psychiatrist or psychologist as they are the only healthcare professionals in the UK who are qualified to assess ADHD. A private assessment could include an interview with a psychiatrist. There will be questions regarding your mental health, childhood experiences and other aspects. The doctor will also utilize ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles at school, work, and relationships. They will also discuss any other signs you may have which could be indicative of ADHD. This will result in a comprehensive ADHD assessment report, which the psychiatrist will send to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medication if needed. They will also help you find other ways of assistance, like mentorship and support for studying skills. If you are students, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance. It's not ideal to cut corners however, the NHS is overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners by using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with not having any expert clinical knowledge. These shortcuts are not recommended, but there is no reason why people with ADHD should not seek a diagnostic appointment if they are able to afford it.