ADHD Private Diagnosis

A person suffering from ADHD might need to be referred by their GP to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done either in person or online through video chat.

Panorama, a BBC investigation has revealed that some clinics provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.

What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?

A medical diagnosis can provide you access to treatments and reduce feelings of confusion or self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members better know the symptoms and how it affects the person's daily routine. This can lead to better relationships and a more informed approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK, the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss why you think you might have ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by an expert. This process will be faster If you request your GP to refer you to a scheme which allows you to select your preferred provider.

You will then go through an extensive psychiatric evaluation that includes a detailed psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. It is always beneficial to bring a friend or family member with you for assistance. After the assessment an expert will determine the cause of ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. The appointment is expected to last around two sessions.

A diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid the pitfalls that could arise when seeking an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with should be able to follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.

If your doctor is unable to identify you as having ADHD then he or she should explain why. It may be that they don't think you meet their criteria for the disorder, or that they believe that other conditions better explain your behavior (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking an additional opinion.

One of the most common reasons why adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood or dismissed by their GP or Getting Diagnosed With ADHD other medical experts. Certain doctors might tell them that their troubles are caused by an inability to work or they're lazy or incompetent. This can be very frustrating, but it is important to keep in mind that these types of myths do not come from scientific evidence.

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

Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some doctors may ignore the symptoms or believe that the patient is masking the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD, depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).

In certain instances, medical staff who aren't familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with that of their unmanaged ADHD or believe that the patient is suffering from anxiety or depression as a result of their unmanaged ADHD. Women suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to recognize because their symptoms are often less obvious and harder to detect. This confusion could lead to a mistreatment of the symptoms with antidepressants or other medicines which are not effective in treating ADHD.

Some private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to schedule an appointment. This can be a difficult process due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then immediately rejected by doctors).

The GP who assesses you will want to ask some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. This could include questions about your job, home, and family, depending on the doctor. They will also discuss the various types of medications available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be most suitable for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medications first. However, should this not work for you then a nonstimulant drug like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.

When you receive a diagnosis, your clinician will send you a document to your GP that details the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a 'shared care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements however not all of them will. If your GP does not accept these agreements, you'll still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I get a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?

A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are similar to those of ADHD, so an expert in mental health can assist in developing the right treatment plan to meet the individual needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may involve talk therapy or medication. It may also require lifestyle modifications. Children who suffer from ADHD could be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior toward other people or serious infringements of social norms and guidelines at school, home or with peers.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

The DVLA categorizes ADHD as a disability. This could make it more difficult for you to obtain your driving license. This is only applicable if your symptoms are having an ongoing and significant impact on your life. This is something that you should discuss with your doctor.

In the same way, having ADHD may affect how well you drive in particular in the case of inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. It may be difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication prior to driving. If you are worried about this, you could decide to travel with a passenger or only drive when you are certain you will be alone in the car.

As you can see that the Panorama program provided a negative and biased perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. We hear from many adults who are Getting Diagnosed with adhd without drug titration, but then have to return to their GP and stand at the back of the queue for an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into a private clinic. This doesn't just discredit the NHS but also increases the stigma associated with the condition, which many feel they are being judged for even by their family members.