ADHD Private Diagnosis

A doctor may refer an adult with ADHD to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done either in person or via video call.

Panorama the documentary, a BBC investigation has revealed that some clinics give unreliable diagnosis. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.

What happens if I do not get a diagnosis?

A professional diagnosis can give you treatment options and help reduce anxiety or self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the symptoms and how it impacts the life of a person. This can lead to stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about the reasons you think you have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and ADHD Private Diagnosis refer you for an assessment with a specialist. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to sign up for an option that lets you select your own provider.

The next step is to conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment, which includes an extensive interview and psychological tests. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After the assessment the specialist will present an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. Your appointment should last two sessions.

A diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that could arise when seeking an appointment with the NHS. When delivering care to you the healthcare professionals must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor does not find that you have ADHD They should be able to explain why. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is totally acceptable 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 don't understand them. They might be told that their problems are the result of not working hard enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be frustrating, but you should be aware that these stereotypes aren't supported by scientific evidence.

What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?

Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain an diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is concealing the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone gets down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).

Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD may mistake the person's behavior as a sign of untreated ADHD, or assume that they are suffering from depression or anxiety disorder as a result. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD by taking antidepressants as well as other medications that are not effective.

Some private assessment companies will require a written consent from your GP before they can take you on for an appointment. This process can be complicated due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of adhd diagnosis uk assessments are referred to, and then rejected by doctors).

The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your work, ADHD Private Diagnosis home and family. They will also go over the various strengths and types of medications available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be most suitable for you. The majority of doctors will recommend stimulant medication however if they don't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant like Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

Once you receive a diagnosis the doctor will send a letter to your GP that outlines the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some GPs will accept these agreements however not all will. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you'll still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I'm diagnosed, but I do not want to take medication or other treatment?

A mental health professional can to develop a treatment program that is specific to the needs of each person. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy or medication. It may also require lifestyle modifications. Children suffering from ADHD can be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior toward other people, or serious violations of social norms and regulations at home, school or in the company of peers.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

The DVLA classifies ADHD as a disability. This could make it more difficult for you to obtain your driving license. However, this is only in the event that your symptoms have a significant and long-term impact on your day to day living. You would need to discuss this with your doctor.

In the same way, having ADHD could affect how you perform when driving in particular when your symptoms include an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. You may find it difficult to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication before driving. If you are worried about this, you may choose to drive with a friend or only drive when you will be alone in the car.

As you can see, the Panorama programme gave a very biased negative opinion of private healthcare for ADHD assessments. Many adults have shared with us that they had received an diagnosis at private clinics without medication titration. They were then required go back to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also increases the stigma associated with the condition, which makes many people feel judged, even by their family members.