How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or specialist ADHD nurse.
This could be a lengthy process, as old school records may need to be supplied. However, you can skip the wait and get private assessments by registering directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private appraisal?
A private assessment of ADHD is a consultation in which you meet with an expert to discuss your symptoms as well as how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more thorough than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The process consists of a structured interview with a expert who will review your symptoms from childhood to adulthood. They will also determine if there are other mental health conditions or neurological issues that could trigger your symptoms. They will examine different areas of functioning, like relationships or work. They will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is worth bearing in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD is not a straight up and down one. A lot of people who are told they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are three of the main symptoms. Adult hyperactivity is often different from boisterous hyperactivity seen in children. It can manifest as a lack of sleep or a constant rush around. In the same way, inattention may manifest as difficulty staying still and being organized, or difficulty staying focused and forgetting things easily.
If you think medication will aid in your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will allow you to receive reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be done by asking your GP to recommend you to a psychiatric assessment.
You might find your GP does not want to refer you or can't offer you an appointment immediately. If this is the case, it may be worth switching GPs - you can find more information about how to make use of your right to choose the Psychiatry-UK website.
You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider via the NHS system or on your own. The majority of these providers require a referral letter from your GP however some do not, so check with your chosen provider prior to making an appointment.
How can I get an assessment in private?
ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain functions like motivation, working memory, and attention. It can cause problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to manage. A private ADHD assessment will aid you in understanding the impact of the symptoms on your life and can be helpful in determining the best ways to treat them.
There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You are able to exercise your right to choose (RTC) if you ask your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you to a provider, you may want to find another GP willing to assist you.
Typically an assessment will be carried out by a psychiatrist, or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate, as per NICE guidelines). They are the only healthcare professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In most cases an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview in person or via video call. The typical time is 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult, you will be asked about your current difficulties and your background from childhood. A healthcare specialist will determine if you exhibit any of the traits that are associated with ADHD like inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature. You will be asked for instances where you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then employ these to determine an assessment and recommend treatments.
If you're struggling with an ongoing condition and don't want to wait for an private adhd assessment appointment with the NHS, obtaining a private assessment may be recommended. It is important to remember that the results of a private assessment do not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You'll still need to discuss this with them, and if you do decide to try medications, it is recommended that you sign a shared care agreement with your GP.
You can see a list of providers in case your GP in England is willing to send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these companies offer assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are a variety of methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called 'Right to Choose' where you can ask your doctor for a referral to any of the specialist providers on their list - this could cut down the wait time considerably. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
In general, it is best to find a specialist psychiatrist with had experience with adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one since they aren't easy to come by. Some will insist on an GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination however, this isn't always required.
Psychiatrists can offer an assessment of your symptoms, but they are not able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists - can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD which is required to get access to assistance services like Disabled Students' Allowance or reasonable adjustments to work.
An expert Psychiatrist will be able to recognize and explain your symptoms, determine whether they are consistent with ADHD and look into any other mental health issues that you may have. It is crucial to be open and honest with your Psychiatrist so they can offer you the most effective treatment.
You'll need to pay for the exam however, if you're diagnosed with ADHD, it may be possible to get medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll be required to pay the NHS prescription fee). If you're considering paying for a private diagnosis, we would recommend you speak with your GP prior to booking an appointment to ensure they are aware of what you're doing and give their approval in the event of need.
It is also worthwhile to consider joining a support group in order to connect with others who suffer from ADHD and to hear about their stories and suggestions. They can be incredibly supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online groups via Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person.
Are private assessments valid?
A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that private clinics are distributing inaccurate diagnoses. A reporter undercover went to three private ADHD assessment providers, and was diagnosed by all three with ADHD despite not having ADHD. The report claimed that these assessments were not thorough and didn't take into account the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD has on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns about those who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for a diagnosis or medication.
There is no doubt that your physician will recommend you to one of the leading private companies to conduct an ADHD assessment (such as Priory) However, they will inform you that there could be a waiting period. The time frame for waiting differs from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. It is advisable to research the provider carefully and ask friends and family members for referrals. Picking a reputable, experienced business will most likely mean you'll have a shorter wait than if you use your GP.
During the assessment, your psychiatrist will assess, subjectively, whether your ADHD symptoms are causing significant disruption in your daily functioning. They will ask you to rule out any other causes, like anxiety or depression. If necessary they will request supporting evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complicated family situations or those who haven't been able to find their childhood school reports.
After being diagnosed with ADHD by an accredited healthcare professional, you can apply for disability benefits from your local authority. You should be aware that the majority of GPs will not sign a document known as a shared-care arrangement in the event that you were diagnosed privately and aren't fully titrated to the final dose of medication. This is because GPs do not have the knowledge to evaluate adults for ADHD and prescribe medication.