ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor can refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private healthcare professional to receive an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video calls.
Panorama, a BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put patients at risk.
What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?
A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment and can help you reduce the feeling of anxiety and self-doubt. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the disorder and how it impacts the life of a person. This can result in better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK, the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss why you think you have ADHD. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and refer you for an assessment by an expert. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to use a plan that lets you select your preferred provider.
Then, you will undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. It is always beneficial to bring a family member with you for assistance. After your assessment the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that could arise when trying to get a diagnosis through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with must still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.
If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you suffer from ADHD, they should explain why. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may consider that a different condition could better explain your symptoms. This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking a second opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand them. Some doctors might inform them that their problems are caused by an inability to work or they're lazy or negligent. It can be frustrating, but keep in mind that these myths aren't supported by evidence from science.
What happens if how is adhd diagnosed in adults disagree?
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to obtain an diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not be aware of what it is or how to recognize it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or think that the person is masking them. Certain GPs might also be confused by the distinction between ADHD and other mental health issues like depression (everyone is down at times) or anxiety (which can manifest with similar symptoms).
Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or believe that they suffer from anxiety or depression disorder as a result. This can be particularly difficult for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and easier to miss. This can lead to inappropriate treatment of symptoms with antidepressants and other medications which are not effective in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment companies require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This procedure can be difficult as NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then immediately rejected by GPs).
The GP who examines you will ask you some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact on it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your work, home and family. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of drugs available to treat ADHD, and what may be best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
Once you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send paperwork to your GP that details the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a 'shared care agreement'. Some GPs accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP does not, you'll have to continue paying privately for your appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I get an illness but don't want to take medication?
A mental health professional can help create a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy or medicine. It may also require lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a form of aggression toward other people or severe violations of rules and social norms at school, home, or among peers.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
As the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it harder for you to get your driver's licence. However it is only applicable if your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your day-to-day living. You would need to discuss this with your physician.
In the same way, having ADHD may affect how well you perform when driving, especially if your symptoms include inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. You may find it difficult to organize your car or make sure to take your medication before driving. If you're concerned about this, choose to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no anyone else in the vehicle.
Panorama's negative portrayal of private health care in ADHD assessments is apparent. Many adults have reported to us that they received an diagnosis at private clinics without drug titration. They had to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't only discredit the NHS and creates a stigma around the condition, which many believe they are being judged for even by their family members.