ADHD Private Diagnosis
A doctor may refer an adult suffering from ADHD to a private health professional for an assessment. This can be done either in person or by video call.
Panorama A BBC investigation has revealed that certain clinics offer a faulty diagnosis. This can put vulnerable people at risk.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment and help reduce feelings of confusion and self-doubt. A diagnosis can also help family members know the symptoms and how it affects the person's daily routine. This can lead to better relationships and a better understanding of ADHD.
In the UK You should first talk to your GP about why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and refer you to an expert to conduct an assessment. You can accelerate the process by asking your GP to use an option that lets you select your own provider.
You will then undergo an extensive psychiatric evaluation that includes a thorough psychological test and clinical interview. It is a good idea to bring a family member with you for support. After the evaluation an expert will determine the cause of ADHD and provide treatment recommendations. The appointment is expected to last around two sessions.
Getting a diagnosis from a private diagnosis specialist can help you avoid pitfalls that may occur when trying to get a diagnosis through the NHS. When delivering care to you, the healthcare professionals should still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.
If your doctor doesn't diagnose you with ADHD, he or she should explain the reason. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they might think that another condition would better explain your symptoms. This is fine and shouldn't discourage you from seeking a second opinion.
One of the most common reasons adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical professionals. Some doctors may tell that their issues are caused by the lack of effort or that they're lazy or negligent. This can be very frustrating however it is important to remember that these stereotypes are not based on evidence from science.
What happens if I don't agree with the diagnosis?
Many people with ADHD struggle to receive a diagnosis. Some GPs have poor awareness of the condition and may not know the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Others may dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or believe that the person is masking the symptoms. Certain GPs might be confused by the difference between ADHD and other mental health conditions such as depression (everyone experiences depression at times) or anxiety (which can present with similar symptoms).
In some cases medical professionals who are not familiar with ADHD may confuse the patient's behavior with that of their uncontrolled ADHD or think that the person suffers from anxiety or depression due to their unmanaged ADHD. Women with ADHD may be difficult to recognize because their symptoms are typically subtler and more difficult to recognize. This confusion can cause people to treat symptoms of ADHD by taking antidepressants as well as other medications that are not effective.
Certain private assessment providers will require a referral from your GP before they will take your appointment. This can be a difficult process as NHS GPs might not accept ADHD referrals (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred to, and then immediately rejected by GPs).
The GP who evaluates you will want to inquire about your life and how your ADHD symptoms affect it. Depending on the doctor it could include questions about your home, work and family. They will also talk about the different types of medication available to treat ADHD and discuss what might be the best for you. Typically, doctors will look at stimulant medication first but should this not work for you then a nonstimulant medication like Atomoxetine, Venlafaxine or Bupropion Hydrochloride could be suggested.
Once you've been diagnosed, the clinician will send a letter to your GP with a document that spells out the diagnosis and how you should be treated. undiagnosed adult adhd is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some GPs accept these agreements but not all. If your GP doesn't, you will have to continue paying privately for your 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 assist to develop a treatment program that is that is tailored to the individual's needs. Early treatment is vital, and it may consist of therapy, medication or lifestyle adjustments. Children suffering from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder which is a form of aggression towards others or serious violations of social norms and rules at home, school or in the company of friends.
What happens if you want to drive?
The DVLA defines ADHD as a disability. This could make it more difficult to get your driving license. This is only a possibility if your symptoms are having an extended and significant impact on your life. You would need to discuss this with your physician.
Similar to having ADHD could affect how you drive in particular when your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. You may have difficulty to organise 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 are certain you'll be driving on your own in the car.
As you can see, the Panorama programme gave a very negative and distorted perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. We hear from a lot of adults who are diagnosed without a drug titration test, but then have to go back to their GP and stand at the end of the line for an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into the private clinic. This does not just discredit the NHS but also adds to the stigma surrounding a condition that makes many sufferers feel that they are judged, even by their family members.