How to Pay For a Private ADHD Assessment
ADHD is a common condition that is difficult to manage. A clear diagnosis can make a huge difference in your life. It is important to keep in mind that ADHD does not mean you can’t live a fulfilling life.
You can get a formally acknowledged diagnosis from a Psychiatrist or any other “appropriately qualified healthcare professional” [Nice Guidelines]. This includes Psychologists.
Cost
You can pay for a private adhd assessment telford ADHD assessment through a variety of methods. Psychiatry UK offers a monthly direct debit option. The payment can also be made through private medical insurances (including Bupa or Aviva). You can also choose to fund your own assessment or medication. The Right to Choose scheme allows adults to have ADHD assessments to be financed by the NHS. This scheme permits patients to choose any appropriate clinical provider so long as they have an agreement with the Integrated Care Board (ICBC) or NHS England.
You will be evaluated by psychiatrists or an ADHD nurse specialist who has been trained to assess ADHD. These are the only healthcare professionals able to diagnose ADHD in the UK in accordance with the Nice guidelines.
During the assessment you will be asked questions about your childhood and life in the past to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. You will also be asked about your symptoms and how they affect you. The examination will take between 45 to 90 minutes.
If the medical professional or the specialist determines that you have ADHD they will inform you and discuss your treatment options. But, it is important to remember that you do not have to accept the diagnosis. You can ask another doctor to review your symptoms if not satisfied with the results.
After the evaluation the expert will then provide you or your GP a written report. The report will contain a description of your symptoms and the impact they have on you on your health, as well as an agreed holistic treatment plan. Your GP will then use the information to decide on a course of treatment for you.
Some GPs will sign a shared care agreement with a private provider, so that you can receive medication through the NHS. You can save money on your medication by only paying the NHS prescription cost. However, some GPs do not agree to this, so it is important to verify before making an appointment.
The NHS will only prescribe ADHD medication to adults who have had an official diagnosis. If you’re diagnosed as an adult with ADHD and you are responsible for paying for your private Adhd assessment reading assessment as well any medication.
Waiting time
In the UK there is a ‘waiting time crisis waiting time crisis for ADHD assessments according to a report by the charity ADHD Action. According to the charity, a majority of people wait for longer than seven years before they can be assessed. The long wait times are causing frustration and anxiety for people who suffer from ADHD. It is estimated that 1.5 million people in the UK suffer from the condition.
Private companies can provide ADHD assessment that is not recognized by the NHS. This means that you will not be able to access any associated medication through the NHS. If you are thinking about getting a private assessment for ADHD ensure that the psychiatrist is a member of the General Medical Council and on their specialist register. Also, be aware that private diagnoses will not allow you to access any workplace protections you would have with a diagnosis that is recognised by the NHS.
While some private companies may have shorter wait times than the NHS however, they are not without their problems. The BBC’s investigation found that some private providers employ unreliable diagnostic techniques and give incorrect diagnoses. This can lead to serious consequences for patients. Doctors are concerned about the current arrangements for ADHD assessment and want more ringfenced funds to improve the service.
Despite the fact many GPs are overwhelmed with ADHD referrals, it is important to remember that only a specialist has the ability to diagnose ADHD. This is why more and more people opt to consult a private doctor for their ADHD assessment. They will not have to endure the long waits for diagnosis, and also get an accurate assessment and treatment plan.
A private ADHD assessment will usually involve an appointment with the psychiatrist and a clinical nurse specialist. This involves an interview, observations and questionnaires. Answering these questions correctly and truthfully will allow the Psychiatrist to determine if or not you suffer from ADHD. The Psychiatrist will then write a report which you can give to your GP.
If your Psychiatrist suggests you take medication, then you’ll be required to sign a shared care agreement with your GP. This will mean that you be responsible for the NHS prescription fee, but your GP will be responsible for renewing the prescription and deciding on future treatments. It is not a sure option and some GPs aren’t keen to share their medical information with private patients.
Experience
A diagnosis of ADHD can help you understand your struggles and make steps to overcome them. It is important to understand what you’re up against and why you struggle to be successful at work, in relationships or in your family life. Many people struggle to get diagnosed and it can be difficult to find a doctor who will take them in.
Private providers can help to reduce your waiting times and ensure you have an appointment with a certified ADHD specialist. The typical assessment takes 45 to 90 minute and include an interview and an assessment of your symptoms. You might also be asked to provide examples from your past to aid in the assessment process. During your appointment, the doctor will determine if you meet the criteria to be diagnosed with ADHD.
Private healthcare professionals will not only assess your ADHD symptoms as well as your mental health and any other medical conditions that you may be suffering from. This will enable them to determine if there are other disorders which can interfere with ADHD. It is important to discuss these issues prior to the appointment because they could affect your treatment.
Untreated ADHD can cause issues in the workplace, with relationships, and also with overall wellbeing. This is a result of the fact that untreated ADHD can trigger an inattention and impulsive behavior. It can also result in depression, anxiety and other psychological issues. It is therefore crucial to seek a proper diagnosis and treatment right away.
Presently, many adults who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD face long waiting times for NHS assessments. The NHS is swamped with referrals, which results in a clogged system. In some instances, it can be up to one year before you’re taken to an ADHD clinic. This can be frustrating especially for those who have struggled for a long time, not knowing what was causing their problems.
A few adults opt for a private ADHD assessment. Private ADHD assessments are costly, but can give you the answers you seek and the peace of mind that you’re receiving treatment from a professional. Some private ADHD assessment companies also offer shared treatment arrangements with GPs. This can mean that your medication is covered by the NHS.
Reputation
There is growing concern that some private businesses are proving that adults have ADHD with low quality assessments and unqualified staff. BBC Panorama recently highlighted this issue. Doctors should refer patients who suspect they may have ADHD to the NHS Adult ADHD service. They should also be aware of the risk that a person could be misdiagnosed and receive medication they don’t need.
Psychiatrists and specialists ADHD nurses are the only ones who can formally assess ADHD. Other mental health professionals, like counsellors, cannot diagnose. They can spot signs and provide support. If you choose to have an individual ADHD assessment, ensure that the doctor or nurse is registered with the General Medical Council and on the specialist register. They must be capable of prescribing medication that is only available with a psychiatric diagnosis.
A thorough ADHD assessment will require several appointments, tests, and observations. If your physician recommends an ADHD assessment, choose a service with a stellar reputation. A good provider will take time to learn about you and the circumstances of your life. The NHS website has a list approved providers.