ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult diagnosis of adhd with ADHD might be referred by their GP to a private healthcare specialist to conduct an assessment. This can be done in person or online via video call.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has highlighted some clinics that provide inaccurate diagnoses. This could put vulnerable patients at risk.

What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?

A medical diagnosis can give you access to treatment options and aid in reducing feelings of self-doubt and confusion. Having a diagnosis also helps family members comprehend the condition and how it affects the person's daily routine. This could lead to better communication and a better understanding of ADHD.

In the UK the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss why you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should take your concerns seriously and refer you for an evaluation with a specialist. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to select the plan that lets you choose your personal provider.

The next step is to conduct a thorough psychotherapy assessment, which includes an in-depth interview and psychological tests. Bring a family member to the appointment is always beneficial. After your assessment the specialist will be able to identify ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. The appointment is expected to last between two and three hours.

A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of trying to get a diagnose through the NHS. Healthcare professionals you work with should still follow evidence-based practices and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines when they provide care to you.

If your healthcare provider isn't able to determine that you have ADHD, they should explain the reasons. You may not meet the requirements for ADHD, or they may believe that another condition could better explain your symptoms. This is totally acceptable and shouldn't discourage you from seeking an additional opinion.

Adults often struggle to get diagnosed with ADHD because their GPs or other medical professionals misunderstand them. Some doctors may tell them that their problems are caused by the lack of effort or that they are lazy or incompetent. This can be extremely disappointing, but it is important to remember that these types of stereotypes are not based on research-based evidence.

What happens if I disagree with the diagnosis?

Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to get a diagnosis. Some doctors may not be aware of the condition or how to identify it. Some might dismiss the symptoms as normal behaviour or assume that the person is masking the symptoms. Some GPs are also confused about the difference between ADHD, depression (everyone is down at times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).

Some medical professionals who aren't familiar with ADHD may misinterpret the person's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or think that they are suffering from anxiety or depression disorder due to it. This is particularly challenging for women suffering from ADHD who's symptoms may be more subtle and difficult to overlook. This confusion can lead to inappropriate treatment of the symptoms using antidepressants and other medications that are not effective in treating ADHD.

Some private assessment providers require a recommendation letter from your GP to make an appointment. This process is not always easy as NHS GPs can bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of all ADHD assessments are referred and then promptly batted back by doctors) on bogus grounds.

The GP who evaluates you will want to ask you some questions about your life and how your ADHD symptoms impact it. Depending on the doctor it could include questions about your home, work and family. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of medication that are available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be best for assessments you. Most doctors will recommend stimulant medication, but if it doesn't work for you, they may suggest a nonstimulant like Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

If you are diagnosed the doctor will send a letter to your GP that outlines the diagnosis and recommended treatment. This is known as a "shared care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements, but not all will. If your GP doesn't, you will need to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I'm diagnosed, but I do not want to receive medication or any other treatment?

A lot of the symptoms of anxiety and depression are similar to the symptoms of ADHD, so an expert in mental health can help develop an appropriate treatment plan that meets the individual requirements of each individual. Early treatment is vital and may include therapy, medication or lifestyle changes. Children who suffer from ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is a pattern of aggression toward other people or serious breaches of rules and social norms at school, home or with friends.

What happens if you want to drive?

Since the DVLA considers ADHD as a disability, having the condition can make it more difficult for you to obtain your driver's license. This is only applicable when your symptoms have a a long-term and significant impact on your life. This is something that you would need to discuss with your doctor.

Similarly, having ADHD may affect how well you drive in particular when your symptoms include inattention or unpredictable driving behavior. As a result you could find you have difficulty with organising your car or remembering to take medication before getting behind the wheel. If you are worried about this, you can decide to drive with a friend or only drive when you will be alone in the car.

As you can see it, the Panorama program provided a biased negative view of private care for ADHD assessments. Many adults have told us that they had received an diagnosis at an private clinic with no medication titration. They were then required to return to their GP to wait in line to undergo an NHS assessment. This does not just discredit the NHS but also adds to the stigma that surrounds a condition that makes many sufferers are that they are judged, even by their family members.