ADHD Private Diagnosis
An adult with ADHD may need to be referred by a GP to a private health professional to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or online through video chat.
Panorama the documentary, a BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This could put patients at risk.
What is the outcome if I fail to get a diagnosis?
A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment and can aid in reducing feelings of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members to understand the condition and how it impacts the person's daily routine. This can lead to better relationships and a more informed management of ADHD.
In the UK In the UK, first talk to your GP about the reason you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you for an assessment by an expert. This process will be faster if you ask your GP to use a scheme that lets you choose your preferred provider.
You will then go through an extensive psychiatric examination which includes a thorough psychotherapy session and a clinical interview. It is always beneficial to bring a family member with to provide assistance. After your assessment, a specialist will identify ADHD and make treatment recommendations. The appointment should last for two sessions.
Finding a diagnosis from an adhd private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when you attempt to obtain a diagnosis through the NHS. The healthcare professionals you work with must still follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.
If your doctor is unable to diagnose you with ADHD then he or she should explain why. It may be that they don't believe that you meet the criteria for the disorder, or they think another condition better explains your traits (symptoms). This is perfectly normal and shouldn't deter you from seeking a second opinion.
Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their doctors or other medical professionals misunderstand their symptoms. They may be told that their problems are the result of not working hard enough or are negligent or lazy. It can be difficult, but remember that these stereotypes are not supported by evidence from science.
What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?
Many people suffering from ADHD are unable to obtain a diagnosis. Some doctors might not be aware of the condition, or even how to recognize it. Some might ignore the signs or believe that the patient is concealing the symptoms. Some doctors may also be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health issues such as depression (everyone feels down sometimes) or anxiety (which can present with similar symptoms).
In some instances medical professionals who are not familiar with ADHD might confuse the person's behaviour with their uncontrolled ADHD or may believe that the patient suffers from anxiety or depression as a result of their unmanaged ADHD. Women who suffer from ADHD can find it difficult to diagnose because their symptoms are often more subtle and difficult to identify. This confusion can lead people to treat symptoms of ADHD with antidepressants and other medications that aren't effective.
Some private assessment companies will require a written consent from your GP before they will take the appointment. This procedure can be difficult as NHS GPs may refuse to accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessment are referred, and then immediately rejected by doctors).
The GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle, and how ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the provider, this can include questions about your home, work and family. They will also discuss the various strengths and types of drugs available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for you. In general, doctors will test stimulant medications first. However, should adhd diagnosed not work for you then a nonstimulant drug such as Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride may be suggested.
If you are diagnosed and the doctor will send a letter to your GP with paperwork that sets out the diagnosis and how they recommend you should be treated. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements however, not all will. If your GP doesn't accept these agreements, you will still need to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.
What happens if I receive a diagnosis but don't want to take medication?
Many of the signs of anxiety and depression are similar to the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety, therefore a mental health professional can help develop the right treatment plan to meet the specific requirements of each individual. Early treatment is vital and could include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Children suffering from ADHD could also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern of aggressive behavior towards others or serious violations of social norms and guidelines at home, school or with the peers.
What happens if I want to drive?
As the DVLA is adamant about ADHD as a disability, having the condition could make it more difficult to get your driver's licence. However it is only applicable when your symptoms have a significant long-term impact on your day to day living. It is recommended to discuss this with your physician.
ADHD can also affect your driving performance, especially if you exhibit impulsivity and erratic driving behaviors. You may find it difficult to organize your car or make sure to take your medication prior to driving. If you are concerned about this, you can opt to drive with a passenger or only drive when you know you'll be driving on your own in the car.
Panorama's negative portrayal of private care in ADHD assessments is apparent. We hear from many adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration, and then have to return to their GP and stand at the back of the queue for an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked' in to an private clinic. This does not just discredit the NHS but also increases the stigma surrounding a condition that makes many sufferers are judged, even by family members.