The Quality of Private ADHD Assessments Has Come Under Questioning

A BBC Panorama investigation has recently exposed the poor quality of private clinic ADHD assessment into question. The investigation by BBC Panorama revealed that an undercover journalist was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics despite having a more thorough NHS evaluation that found he didn't have the condition.

Nevertheless many patients are forced to obtain private diagnostics and treatments due to the long NHS waiting lists. But how do private assessments perform?

What is an assessment that is private?

A private ADHD assessment is a thorough process that starts with a thorough interview, which can be conducted in person, over the phone or via video link. The psychiatrist or psychologist assessing you will also complete an extensive medical history and may use additional tests, such as neuropsychological tests to provide insights into your strengths, weaknesses and any comorbid conditions that you have.

During the assessment the doctor will discuss the impact that your symptoms have on your life, and work towards finding the most effective type of treatment for you. This could include medication or CBT therapy, but everyone is different, so it's essential to find the right fit for you.

We have an experienced team of psychologists and psychiatrists who are experts in the assessment and management of adult ADHD. Our clinics are accredited by NHS England's ‘Right to Choose’ law, which grants you the right to access specialist mental healthcare outside of your GP. This is an enormous benefit since the NHS can have very long waiting times.

Many people suffering from untreated ADHD experience serious problems with their professional and personal lives. This can have a huge impact on self esteem and well-being. If not treated, ADHD can lead to depression or anxiety. This is the reason we believe that a private adult ADHD assessment is so important and can provide the answers you require sooner, and determine the best solution for you.

Once you have had an appointment, you are able to return to your GP under what's known as a shared care agreement. The psychiatrist or psychologist who diagnosed you will write to your GP with a form to sign, stating that you will be returning to their treatment. You can visit your GP and continue treatment.

It is important to keep in mind that only an expert psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose ADHD, and only they can prescribe medication for it. Other mental health professionals, including psychologists, can conduct an assessment for ADHD but they are not able to prescribe medication.

Benefits of an assessment by a private person

Many who want an individual ADHD assessment do so because they are tired of waiting years on an NHS diagnosis. This can be particularly difficult for adults, who have witnessed how untreated ADHD affects their work life and relationships, as well as their financial security.

Private assessments can often be shorter than NHS assessments, and can be completed at a time that is convenient for the patient. Some clinics accept insurance or provide flexible payment plans. The cost of a private exam will vary from provider service, therefore it is essential to shop around and find a clinic that suits your needs and budget.

A private ADHD assessment is usually completed by a psychologist or psychiatrist, as they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. They are trained to observe, talk to and administer psychometric tests to measure ADHD symptoms. The process of assessment includes questionnaires to determine if you exhibit enough signs of ADHD and observations at the classroom and Adult ADHD at home (if appropriate) as well as a psychological evaluation in depth and a discussion of your family's history of mental health.

Psychologists can also detect comorbid conditions that could coexist with ADHD, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can have a major impact on the health of a person and decrease the necessity for GPs prescribing other medications.

After a diagnosis has been established, the doctor will then suggest treatments and suggest ways to manage symptoms, such as education and assistance at home or in the workplace, exercise, diet and lifestyle changes. If medication is prescribed, a shared-care agreement may be required between the GPs and patients.

Untreated ADHD can lead to serious and long-lasting issues like criminality as well as substance abuse and even a decline in life duration. Untreated ADHD could have the same impact as untreated Type 2 Diabetes in middle age. Therefore, it is crucial that patients are given the support and assistance they require.

What to Expect What to Expect During a Private Assessment

If you suspect that you may have ADHD, or think your child might be suffering from it, scheduling an evaluation can feel overwhelming. Once you've scheduled an appointment, you can breathe easy.

It is important that you select a specialist who has been trained in ADHD assessment. They are medical professionals, generally psychiatrists or psychologists. They will examine your symptoms, history and perform a medical examination. They will also ask you to complete one or more of the standardized behavior rating scales that are based on research comparing behaviors of people with and without ADHD.

These assessments will be discussed during your appointment. You could be diagnosed with ADHD or a different mental health issue, such as depression or learning disabilities, drug and alcohol abuse or anxiety. If you're diagnosed with ADHD then you and your doctor will discuss the treatment options. In general, it is recommended that a treatment regimen be paired with specialist coaching. This approach has been proven to provide the best long-term results for symptom control for people suffering from ADHD.

Get suggestions from your patients or healthcare professionals you trust when selecting the right psychologist or psychiatrist to conduct your evaluation. Check the specialist's professional certification, academic qualifications and experience in treating adults with ADHD.

Once you have completed the pre-screening questionnaire, your appointment will be confirmed and scheduled. After you have scheduled an appointment these forms will be on your portal dashboard. They must be returned to your physician within a specific time. They are vital to the appointment, since your doctor will not be able to meet you until the forms have been inspected and approved.

It is important to be completely sincere during your evaluation with the psychologist or psychiatrist who is conducting the assessment. This will enable them to make an accurate diagnosis and determine your best treatment options. It is also important to discuss your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. You might want to inform the doctor, for example, you have difficulty keeping financial records or working at work or at home.

What to Expect After a Private Assessment

A private assessment starts with a clinical interview focusing on symptoms and medical histories. In this process, it is crucial for the person being assessed to be open and honest. They should not hide information out of shame or concern about criticism. This is because the quality of the evaluation and treatment recommendations will rely on the quality of the information that is provided.

A questionnaire is usually given to the patient by a psychiatrist. It is designed to help the doctor recognize and rate various symptoms of adult ADHD such as impulsivity and inattention. The psychiatrist will also inquire about the impact the symptoms have had on the patient's life, and will typically examine the person's relationships with others as well.

In a lot of private assessments, a close family member or a friend can be included as a collateral source. The psychiatrist will want to determine if the symptoms are present at home, or when the person is under extreme stress. It is often difficult to know how significant these effects are when a patient is in an office with psychiatrists. This is why it is beneficial for those who know them well to provide feedback.

Some professionals will use additional tools, such as an assessment of cognitive function or a neuropsychological exam, in an assessment. These tests can give an even more complete picture of the person's strengths, weaknesses, and any other comorbid conditions that may contribute to the symptoms.

Report writing is usually the final phase of an evaluation. The report will contain an assessment and, in the event of a need an action plan for treatment. It is also common for the report to include recommendations on how to manage the symptoms of ADHD and ways to improve performance at home, school, and work.

If you suspect you or your child could be suffering from adhd symptoms in adults an assessment by a private specialist can be a great option. While it is possible to receive an ADHD diagnosis through the NHS but waiting times can be lengthy. Private assessments can be more efficient and you can choose your individual specialist. This can make the process less stressful.