What to Expect From a Private ADHD Diagnosis
With NHS service waiting times for adult ADHD assessments at an all-time high, many people are looking at private alternatives. It is important to understand what to expect before you decide to go down this route.
BBC Panorama reported that some private ADHD clinics could prescribe powerful drugs without taking into consideration the mental health background of their patients.
Waiting at various times
It can take a long time to get an ADHD diagnosis. In some parts of the country, patients may have to wait as long as four years to be examined by the NHS for an assessment. People who suffer from the condition and need help can go to private clinics, but they need to be able to afford their services.
If you need an ADHD diagnosis quickly, a private psychiatrist could help. Private doctors are often experienced in diagnosing ADHD in adults and can diagnose it quickly. They are also capable of identifying anxiety and depression as well as other co-morbidities, which can be associated with ADHD. They might also be able to prescribe medication too.
Recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that some private clinics in UK overdiagnose ADHD for adults, and prescribe them medication. The investigation was conducted by an undercover reporter who disguised himself as a patient in six different private clinics in London. The reporter was told to answer all questions honestly however, he did not inform the doctors that he was there for an ADHD assessment. He claimed he had issues at work and at home. The reporter said that he was having trouble falling asleep, and also lost weight.
Some of the private clinics he went to were not recognized by the NHS, which is a requirement under the Mental Health Act. This means they must comply with certain standards, such as the right to be aware of the risks and benefits with any treatment. They must also provide a clear explanation of the cost of the treatment and the method of financing it.
One of the reasons it can take the time to complete an ADHD assessment is that a lot of GPs do not feel comfortable prescribing patients. They may be worried about the stigma that surrounds the disorder or fear that they'll be compelled to prescribe medication. It's important to locate an GP who is willing to refer you and who has a good understanding of the condition.
Medication
An ADHD evaluation by a private psychiatrist could last up to 30 minutes. The cost of the evaluation will depend on the location you live in. It's worthwhile to compare costs to determine what works best for your budget. If you are looking to address your symptoms, a comprehensive adult ADHD diagnosis is necessary. It is important to find a clinic that is close to home and that has a psychiatrist with a lot of experience in the field. This will ensure a smoother experience and better results.
If you would like to try a medication for ADHD, private psychiatrists can prescribe the appropriate medication to treat your condition. In general, they will prescribe a medication called methylphenidate (Ritalin) or atomoxetine. These are licensed medications in the UK and have been subjected to extensive testing. Moreover, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority regulates these medications. If you do not want to take a medication, a doctor can suggest alternatives, like cognitive behavioral treatment.
The psychiatrist will send an exact copy of the report to you and your GP after you have been diagnosed with ADHD. This will allow you to establish that you are suffering from ADHD for insurance purposes or other reasons. A letter from a psychologist can also help you to qualify for the Disabled Student Allowance.
Getting an ADHD diagnosis on the NHS can be a lengthy process. Patients are often required to wait for months to receive an appointment with a physician. This can lead to frustration and anxiety, especially when the condition affects your work or social life. Private ADHD assessments can help you receive the treatment you require faster.
If you opt to have a private ADHD assessment, the doctor must sign a shared care agreement with your GP. This will permit you to pay the NHS prescription fee and receive the medication you require. Some GPs might not allow this, so it's best to talk to them before you go with an assessment in private. If they do not agree, you can always return to the NHS or go to an alternative clinic.
CBT therapy
Despite the fact that CBT can help many people with ADHD medications are often preferred. Prescription drugs can have some risks. For instance, the side effects may include anxiety and depression. Certain patients could develop dependency on these medications. It is important to consult your doctor prior to beginning any treatment. A private psychiatrist can give you an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your particular condition.
The ineffective supply of ADHD services across the UK has come under the spotlight again following an BBC Panorama investigation. The BBC Panorama programme has revealed that the NHS does not satisfy the needs of those who suffer from ADHD who are enduring long wait times for treatment and assessments. This is despite the fact that there are more adults than ever living with the condition, which can have devastating consequences for their lives.
Many people believe that private healthcare is more trustworthy than the NHS however this isn't always the situation. While private healthcare providers receive a lot of money, this does not mean that they have more leeway to evade the rules. They must still adhere to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence Guidelines and adhere to the best practices based on evidence. They must also have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to diagnose and treat ADHD.
Maudsley Hospital, London, is one of the NHS locations that offer adult ADHD evaluations for adults with ADHD. The service is not as extensive, and can be frustrating for patients. The waiting time and quality of assessments can vary greatly.
Psychiatrists are trained in the assessment of patients for a variety of mental health disorders which include ADHD. However many do not know about the disorder and might overlook the most crucial symptoms. This can lead to confusion, which can be an extremely serious issue for those suffering from ADHD. This is the reason it's essential to find a specialist psychiatrist in treating ADHD.
Private therapists can diagnose ADHD for a small fee. This is a great option to reduce the time spent waiting for NHS mental health services. It is important to know, however, that this type treatment is not covered under insurance.
Insurance
If you have private medical insurance, you may be interested in reviewing your policy's terms and conditions to determine if or not an ADHD assessment is covered. Axa PPP, private adhd assessment uk and Vitality all say in their terms and conditions that they do not cover ADHD assessments. Bupa provides coverage.
It is important to note that it may take a long time to get a diagnosis through the NHS, and that even in private clinics waiting times can be lengthy. This is why many parents go to private clinics in order to get rid of the red tape and reduce the time they wait.
As Panorama has revealed, a few private clinics are also handing out unreliable diagnoses. It's important to know that this isn't something that should be accepted. It's not a safe or sensible practice and it should be a national scandal for the UK.
If you are suffering from a private diagnosis be sure that your GP will sign an agreement of shared-care with NHS to cover medication. You can still obtain prescriptions for medication, but you will only pay the NHS prescription fee instead of the full cost. Many GPs will be happy to do this however not all will and it is best to ask first.