20 Things You Need To Know About ADHD Private Diagnosis
ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their doctor to a private health specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person or by video chat.
The BBC's Panorama investigation has highlighted some clinics that provide incorrect diagnoses. This could put patients at risk.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A diagnosis from a professional can grant you treatment options and help reduce feelings of self-doubt or confusion. A diagnosis can aid family members in understanding the condition, and how it impacts the person's life. This can result in better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK the first step is to speak with your GP and discuss the reasons you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you to an assessment by an expert. This process will be quicker when you ask your GP to sign up for a plan which allows you to select your preferred provider.
Then, you will undergo a thorough psychiatric assessment which includes a thorough psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. Bringing a family member along is always beneficial. After diagnosed with adhd will be able to determine the cause of ADHD and make treatment recommendations. The appointment is expected to last around two sessions.
A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can help you avoid the traps of trying to obtain a diagnose through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you collaborate with should still follow evidence-based practice and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when treating you.
If your doctor is unable to identify you as having ADHD then he or she should explain the reason. You might not meet the criteria for ADHD, or they might think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is totally acceptable and shouldn't deter you from seeking an alternative opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals don't understand their symptoms. Certain doctors might tell them that their problems are caused by the lack of effort or that they're lazy or negligent. This can be extremely frustrating, but it is important to remember that these kinds of myths do not come from scientific evidence.
What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD have difficulty getting an diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition, or even how to diagnose it. Some might ignore the signs or think that the patient is masking the symptoms. Some GPs may also be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health disorders such as depression (everyone is down at times) or anxiety (which may present with similar symptoms).
Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior as an indication of their untreated ADHD or believe that they suffer from depression or an anxiety disorder due to it. Women who suffer from ADHD may be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms tend to be more subtle and difficult to recognize. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants or other medications that are not effective.
Some private assessment companies require a recommendation letter from your GP to set up an appointment. This can be a difficult process as NHS doctors may not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to, and then promptly rejected by the GPs).
The GP will ask you questions about your life, and how ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the provider it could include questions about your work, home and family. They will also discuss the various kinds of medication available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be most suitable for you. Most clinicians will recommend stimulant medications however if they don't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant, such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.
When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send a letter to your GP that outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement". Some doctors are in agreement with these agreements, but not all. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you will still be required to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I'm diagnosed but don't want to undergo medication or another 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 a medication. It may also require lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression toward other people or severe violations of rules and social norms at home, school or in the company of friends.
What is the procedure if I decide to drive?
The DVLA defines ADHD as a disability. This can make it harder for you to obtain your driving licence. However this is only the case if your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. You would need to discuss this with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance, especially if you exhibit an impulsive driving style and unpredictable driving behavior. It may be difficult to arrange your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you're worried about this, you can decide 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. We hear from many adults who receive a diagnosis without a drug titration, and then have to go back to their GP and wait in the end of the line for an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into an private clinic. This doesn't just denigrate the NHS, it creates a stigma around a condition that many people believe they are judged for, even by their own family.