ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might need to be referred by a GP to a private health professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or via video chat.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has highlighted some clinics that offer incorrect diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.

What is the outcome if I fail to get an appointment?

A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment and help reduce feelings of self-doubt and ADHD Private Diagnosis confusion. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the condition, and how it affects the life of a person. This can result in stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about why you believe you have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an evaluation with a specialist. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to select a plan that allows you to select your personal provider.

You will then go through an extensive psychiatric evaluation that includes a thorough clinical interview and psychological testing. It is always helpful to bring a family member with to provide support. After the evaluation an expert will identify ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. The appointment should last for two sessions.

Getting a diagnosis for adhd in adults from an adhd private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when trying to get an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. When delivering care to you healthcare professionals, they must follow evidence-based guidelines and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your healthcare provider does not find that you suffer from ADHD you should be told the reason. It could be that they don't think you meet the criteria for this disorder, or that they think other conditions better explain your characteristics (symptoms). This is perfectly normal and should not discourage you from seeking an alternative opinion.

Adults often struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand their symptoms. Some doctors may tell that their issues are caused by an inability to work or they're lazy or incompetent. This can be extremely disappointing however it is important to keep in mind that these types of stereotypes are not based on scientific evidence.

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

Many people with ADHD struggle to get an diagnosis. Some GPs have poor awareness of the condition and may not understand the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is masking the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which may have similar symptoms).

In some cases, medical staff who are not familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with that of their unmanaged ADHD or will assume that the person is suffering from depression or anxiety because of their unmanaged ADHD. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and easy to overlook. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.

Certain private assessment providers will require a referral from your GP before they will bring the appointment. This procedure can be difficult due to the fact that NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then promptly rejected by doctors).

The GP who evaluates you will ask some questions about your personal life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the doctor, this can include questions about your work, home and family. They will also talk about 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, if this doesn't suit you then a nonstimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.

If you are diagnosed and the doctor will send a letter to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and how they recommend you should be treated. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Certain doctors will sign these agreements, but not all of them will. If your GP does not agree with these agreements, you'll still have to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

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

Many of the signs of depression and anxiety are the same as those of ADHD, so an expert in mental health can help develop a treatment plan that fits the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is essential and could include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD could also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior towards others or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at school, home or with friends.

What happens if you decide to drive?

The DVLA categorizes ADHD as a disability. This could make it difficult for ADHD Private Diagnosis you to obtain your driving license. However, this is only in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something that you'll need to discuss with your physician.

In the same way, having ADHD can affect how you perform when driving particularly if your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. You may have difficulty to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you could decide to travel with a passenger or only drive when you will be alone in the car.

The negative image of Panorama's private healthcare in ADHD assessments is clear. Many adults have reported to us that they received a diagnosis in private clinics without drug adjustment. They then had to return to their GP to wait in line for an NHS assessment. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS and increases the stigma associated with a condition that many people think they are judged for even by their family members.