ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their GP to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person or via video conference.
Panorama the documentary, a BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This puts patients at risk.
What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?
A professional diagnosis can give you access to treatments and reduce anxiety or self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members understand the symptoms and how it impacts the person's life. This can result in stronger relationships and a more informed approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK In the UK, first speak to your GP about the reason you believe you have ADHD. Your GP should consider your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by an expert. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to select the plan that lets you choose your preferred provider.
The next step is a comprehensive psychotherapy evaluation, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your assessment the doctor will give a clear diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. Your appointment should last two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. When delivering care to you, the healthcare professionals should remain in line with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you have ADHD you should be told why. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they may think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
One of the primary reasons adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is because they are often misunderstood by their doctor or other medical professionals. They may be told that their issues are the result of not trying hard enough or are negligent or lazy. This can be extremely disappointing However, it is important to remember that these kinds of stereotypes are not based on scientific evidence.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty getting an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even how to identify it. Some might ignore the signs or think 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 ADHD Diagnosis , medical staff who are not familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behaviour with their uncontrolled ADHD or will think that the person is suffering from depression or anxiety due to their unmanaged ADHD. This is especially challenging for women with ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to overlook. This can lead to inappropriate treatment of the symptoms using antidepressants and other medications which are not effective in treating ADHD.
Certain private assessment providers will require a referral from your GP before they can take you on for an appointment. This process is not always easy as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then immediately batted back by GPs) on bogus grounds.
The GP who assesses you will be looking to ask you some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. This may include questions about your work, home, and family, depending on the doctor. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of drugs available to treat ADHD, and what may be best for you. Most doctors will recommend stimulant medications however if they don't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant like Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
Once you've been diagnosed, the clinician will send a letter to your GP with a form that spells out the diagnosis and how they recommend that you be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement". Some GPs accept these agreements, but not all. If your GP doesn't, you will have to continue paying privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I get a diagnosis but don't want to take medication?
A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are the same as the symptoms of ADHD, so a mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan that fits the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is vital, and it may consist of therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression towards others or serious breaches of social norms and rules at school, home or with peers.
What happens if I want drive?
As the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having this condition can make it more difficult to get your driver's licence. This only applies if your symptoms are having a long-term and significant impact on your daily life. This is something that you'll need to discuss with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance particularly if you show inattention and unstable driving habits. You may have difficulty to organise your car, or remember to take your medication before driving. If you are concerned about this, you could choose to travel with a passenger or only drive when you know you'll be the only driver in the car.
The negative image of Panorama's private health care in ADHD assessments is evident. Many adults have shared with us that they received an assessment in private clinics without medication adjustment. They were then required to return to their GP to wait in the line to undergo an NHS assessment. This doesn't just discredit the NHS, it adds to the stigma of the condition, which many believe they are judged for even by their own family.