Lacy Tazewell asked 3 months ago
ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor may refer an adult with ADHD to a private health professional to receive an assessment. This can be done either in person or by video chat.
The BBC’s Panorama investigation has revealed clinics that offer inaccurate diagnoses. This puts patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I fail to receive a diagnosis?
A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment options and help reduce feelings of self-doubt and confusion. Having a diagnosis also helps family members better understand the condition and how it impacts the person’s daily routine. This can result in stronger relationships and a better approach to managing ADHD.
In the UK, the first step is to speak 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 with an expert. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you select your personal provider.
You will then undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment that includes a detailed clinical interview and psychological testing. It is always helpful to bring a family member with you where to get diagnosis for adhd offer assistance. After the assessment the doctor will give an accurate diagnosis of ADHD and offer recommendations for treatment. The appointment should last for two sessions.
A diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist will help you avoid pitfalls that can arise when you attempt to obtain an accurate diagnosis from the NHS. When providing care to you the healthcare professionals must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor doesn’t believe you suffer from ADHD They should be able to explain the reasons. You may not meet the requirements for adhd adults diagnosis, or they may believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn’t deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.
One of the most common reasons why adults struggle to get a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their doctor or other medical professionals. Certain doctors might tell that their issues result from the lack of effort or that they are lazy or negligent. This can be extremely frustrating however it is important to keep in mind that these stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.
What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain an diagnosis. Some doctors are unaware of the condition and may not be aware of the nature of the condition or how to recognize it. Some may dismiss the symptoms or assume the person is concealing 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 professionals who are unfamiliar with ADHD might confuse the person’s behaviour with their unmanaged ADHD or think that the person is suffering from anxiety or depression due to their unmanaged ADHD. This is especially challenging for women suffering from ADHD who’s symptoms are more subtle and easier to miss. This can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD by taking antidepressants as well as other medications that aren’t effective.
Some private assessment providers will require a written consent from your GP before they can take the 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 promptly rejected by the GPs).
The GP who assesses you will inquire about your life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. This could include questions about your work, home and family life, based on the provider. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be most suitable for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medications first, but if this doesn’t suit you then a nonstimulant medication such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride might be recommended.
When you receive a diagnosis, your clinician will send a letter to your GP that details the diagnosis and the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a “shared care agreement’. Some GPs will accept these agreements however, not all of them. If your GP does not accept these agreements, you will still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What is the next step if I am diagnosed but do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?
A mental health professional can help develop a treatment plan that is specific to the needs of each person. Early treatment is crucial and may involve talk therapy or medicine. It could also involve 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 school, at home, or among peers.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
The DVLA categorizes ADHD as a disability. This could make it harder for you to obtain your driving licence. However, this is only if your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. This is something that you would need to discuss with your doctor.
Similar to having ADHD may affect how well you drive, especially when your symptoms include an impulsive driving style or other irregular driving habits. You may have difficulty to organize your car or remember to take your medication before driving. If you’re worried about this, you could decide to drive with a friend or only drive when you know you will be alone in the car.
As you can see it, the Panorama program gave a highly biased negative view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have reported to us that they were given a diagnosis in private clinics without medication titration. They were then required go back to their GP to wait in the line to undergo an NHS assessment. This not only discredits the NHS but also increases the stigma associated with a condition for which many sufferers feel that they are judged, even by family members.