ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by a GP to a private healthcare specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person, or online via video call.
Panorama the documentary, 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 an answer to my question?
A diagnosis from a professional will grant you access to treatment and aid in reducing feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Having a diagnosis also helps family members to comprehend the condition and how it impacts the person's daily routine. This can result in better relationships and a better management of ADHD.
In the UK, you should first talk to your GP about the reasons you think you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert for an assessment. This process will be faster when you ask your GP to use a scheme which allows you to select your preferred provider.
The next step is a comprehensive psychological evaluation, which includes an extensive interview and psychological test. It is always helpful to bring a friend or family member with you to offer support. After your evaluation the doctor will give an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and provide suggestions for treatment. The appointment should last for 2 sessions.
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/human-givens-institute-logo.png)Finding a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when trying to get an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. If you are receiving treatment healthcare professionals, they must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor does not identify you as having adhd diagnosis as an adult, he or she must explain why. You may not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is fine and should not discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. Some doctors may tell them that their troubles result from a lack of effort or they're lazy or incompetent. It can be frustrating, but you should remember that these stereotypes are not supported by scientific research.
What happens if I do not agree?
Many people with adhd diagnosis for adults struggle to get a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition, or even How To Get Adhd Diagnosis Scotland to identify it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is concealing the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone experiences down times) and anxiety (which can exhibit similar symptoms).
In some cases medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with that of their uncontrolled ADHD or think that the person is suffering from anxiety or depression due to their unmanaged ADHD. This can be particularly difficult for women with ADHD whose symptoms can be more subtle and difficult to miss. This confusion can result in inappropriate treatment of symptoms with antidepressants or other medicines that are not helpful in treating ADHD.
Some private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to schedule an appointment. This isn't always straightforward as NHS GPs are able to bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to and then promptly batted back by doctors) with bogus reasons.
The GP will ask you questions regarding your life and how to diagnose adults with adhd ADHD symptoms impact it. Based on the provider the questions could be about your work, home and family. They will also discuss the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and will discuss which might be best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medications first. However, should this not work for you then a nonstimulant drug such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send a letter to your GP that details the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. 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, you'll have to continue paying privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I get an illness 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 an appropriate treatment plan that meets the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is vital and may consist of therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a pattern of aggression towards others or severe violations of social norms and rules at home, school or with peers.
What happens if you want to drive?
As the DVLA considers ADHD as a disability, having this condition could make it more difficult to get your driver's license. However this is only the case in the event that your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. You should discuss this with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance, especially if you exhibit inattention and unstable driving habits. You may find it difficult to organise your car, or remember to take your medication before driving. If you're worried about this, you can opt to drive with someone else or only drive when there is no anyone else in the vehicle.
The negative image of Panorama's private healthcare in ADHD assessments is evident. Many adults have told us that they received an assessment in an private clinic with no drug adjustment. They were then required return to their GP to wait in line to undergo an NHS assessment. This is not only a discrediting of the NHS but also increases the stigma surrounding the condition, which makes many people feel belittled by family members.