ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Seek Help Privately
With wait times for services at an all time high private adult ADHD assessments are becoming more popular. Anyone who is registered in England with a GP can choose to have their ADHD assessed privately making use of their 'Right of Choice'.
This allows them to get assessed and diagnosed within a couple of months, instead of waiting for years on the NHS.
Waiting at various times
A growing number of people seek a diagnosis of ADHD. It is estimated that more than one million adults are suffering from undiagnosed ADHD in the UK and wait times for NHS assessments are soaring. In certain regions, it could take as long as seven years for an assessment appointment to become available. A few prominent people have been vocal about the condition, including Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins, and Johnny Vegas. However, many adults who require an assessment are forced to seek out help privately.
In some instances patients were told that they would need wait for 18 months before they could receive a prescription for ADHD medication. This is due to the shortage of staff in the public health system. The issue is particularly acute in Greater Manchester, where service providers are struggling to keep up with the demands. Referrals are the result of the absence of a top down strategy for ADHD. This has led to an outsourcing of adult ADHD assessments to private providers such as Psychiatry UK, resulting in lengthy waiting times for patients.
A BBC Panorama investigation sparked a debate on the way private clinics diagnosis ADHD. The investigation was conducted by an undercover journalist who went to three private clinics. All of them diagnosed the patient with the condition. The BBC has claimed that these clinics rush through tests and prescribing dangerous drugs without providing proper guidance about possible side effects. Despite what do you think , the BBC's report has been criticised for failing to focus on the wider issues surrounding the delivery of ADHD services in the UK.
The NHS has more than 10,000 adult ADHD cases on its waiting list. This is due to increasing awareness and a rising number of people seeking to diagnose the condition. The demand for NHS services has exceeded their capacity, and some areas are unable to offer an assessment. For those fortunate enough to get an assessment through the NHS will be waiting for a long time before they can get treatment.
There are a few ways that people can cut their waiting time for an ADHD diagnosis. First, they should talk to their GP to explain why they believe they may be suffering from ADHD. Their GP should be concerned and send them to an assessment.
Psychiatrists
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it can be difficult. There is a huge demand for ADHD assessments, yet the NHS is unable to meet the demand. This has led to many short cuts, from private clinics to online assessments. These are not always accurate and can lead to a incorrect diagnosis.
It is important to consult a psychiatrist who has expertise in ADHD for a diagnosis. A general practitioner or psychologist might not have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to make a diagnosis. If you're not sure whom to ask, consult your local mental health center for an alphabetical list. You may also ask your GP to refer you to a specialist, which is typically the quickest way to get an ADHD assessment.
ADHD is becoming more and more commonplace, and many people seek help. There is no cure for ADHD, however there are treatment options that can improve symptoms. This includes psychiatric medicines psychotherapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. In addition, some people are taking supplements to treat the symptoms.
A specialist psychiatrist in ADHD can assist you in finding the best treatment for your symptoms. They will evaluate your symptoms, which could include difficulties in concentrating, problems with memory, poor sleeping habits and emotional dysregulation. They will also ask about your childhood and your family history. Then, they will create a plan that is specific to you. This may include psychotherapy or medication.
You have a right to choose if your GP suggests an adult ADHD assessment in England. This Right to Choose service allows you to choose a clinic in your area that provides NHS assessments. Alternatively, you can also avail the services of private clinics that offer NHS assessments. These clinics have shorter waiting times, and they also provide video calls.
The Psychiatrists at Anchor Psychiatry Group in Norfolk and Waveney have more than 23 years of experience in providing holistic psychotherapeutic and psychiatric assessments to adults. They specialise in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) along with other presenting problems like depression and anxiety.
Costs
The demand for private ADHD assessment is on the rise and is expected to continue. This is due to a variety of factors, including increased awareness of the condition, a underfunded NHS, and a world where mental health issues are becoming more frequent. Additionally, many sufferers can see the harm that untreated ADHD can cause to their lives and relationships, and are prepared to pay for a diagnosis so they can receive treatment.
The BBC Panorama documentary, which focused on the issue of private ADHD clinics, raised the issue that some businesses are exploitation of vulnerable patients. The documentary from BBC Panorama revealed that some private clinics cost patients thousands of pounds for mediocre assessments and poor aftercare. This is a serious problem that the government must address.
At present, the NHS lets adults choose which psychiatrist to see for a diagnostic appointment. However this option is usually limited to specific NHS health regions and to doctors who have agreements with these providers. The GPs are often overwhelmed and not able to provide full-service for people suffering from ADHD. Private ADHD assessment services have increased in popularity since they are generally less expensive than NHS appointments.
While some of these private services are good at what they do however, some aren't as reliable or as professional as the NHS. Some of these services are charging for the diagnosis itself and there is a danger that this could lead to patients who are apprehensive about their symptoms. This won't help them live better lives, and it will also waste money that could be used on other services, like those for anxiety or depression.
In contrast, some NHS services are exceptional and provide a professional complete service to people suffering from ADHD. These include the Maudsley Hospital in London, which is nationally renowned for its adult ADHD assessment and care. Even these facilities are struggling with the demand of increasing numbers of patients.
Insurance
It's costly to have an individual ADHD assessment, but it's worth it if it's something you can afford. The diagnosis can improve your living quality and help you in many areas such as your work and relationships. It is important to inform your insurance provider of any diagnosis so they can advise you on the best level of protection for you.
If you are a member of a private health insurance policy, you should check its terms and conditions to determine whether it covers ADHD assessments. The four major private healthcare providers, Axa PPP, Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality Health each have their own policies. Some companies will not pay the assessment fee while others will. You should read the terms and conditions attentively to learn what they cover.
GPs may not be able to refer a patient to an ADHD evaluation for a number of reasons. However, this is not always the situation. If your GP is unwilling to help you, try another. If your GP won't sign a shared care agreement with you regarding medication, you may want to get an additional opinion from an ADHD clinic. There are many online ADHD tests that are available, but they can be inaccurate.