The Quality of Private ADHD Assessments Has Come Under Questioning
The quality of private clinic ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny following an BBC Panorama investigation. The investigation by BBC Panorama revealed that an undercover journalist was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics despite having a more thorough NHS evaluation that found that he did not suffer from the condition.
Yet, many patients are forced to seek private diagnostics and treatments due to the long NHS waiting lists. What is the procedure for private assessments but what are the advantages?
What is a Private Assessment?
A private ADHD assessment starts with a thorough clinical interview. It can be conducted in person or over the phone or via video link. The psychiatrist or psychologist conducting the assessment will also take an extensive medical history. They may use additional tests such as neuropsychological testing to offer insight into your strengths, weaknesses, and any comorbid conditions that you have.
During the evaluation the doctor will discuss the impact that the symptoms you are experiencing have on your life, and work towards finding the most effective method of treatment for you. It could be CBT or medication, but it's important to determine which is the most effective for you.
Our team of psychologists, psychiatrists and other professionals are experts in the evaluation of adult ADHD. Our clinics have been accredited by NHS England's 'Right to Choose' legislation which allows you to legally to access professional mental health services outside of your doctor's office. This is an advantage, considering that the NHS can be very slow.
Many people who suffer from unmanaged ADHD have serious issues with their personal and professional lives and this can have a major impact on self-esteem and well-being. Untreated ADHD can lead to depression or anxiety. We believe that an individual ADHD assessment for adults can be extremely beneficial. It will assist you in finding the answers you seek and the most effective solution.
After you've received diagnosed, you can return to your GP under what's known as a shared care agreement. The psychiatrist or psychologist that diagnosed you will submit a form to your GP for you to sign, stating that you're returning to his treatment. You can then go back to your GP for follow up appointments and ongoing treatment.
It's important to remember that only an expert psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose ADHD and they are the only ones who can prescribe medication for it. Other mental health professionals such as psychologists are able to assess ADHD, but they cannot prescribe medications.
Benefits of a private assessment
Many who want an independent ADHD assessment do so because they are tired of waiting years on an NHS diagnosis. This can be particularly frustrating for those who are adults who have seen how untreated ADHD impacts their work and relationships as well as their financial security.
Private assessments are usually shorter than NHS assessments, and can be completed at a time that works for the client. Some clinics also offer flexible payment plans or accept insurance as a means of payment. The cost of a private assessment will vary from provider to provider, so it is important to shop around and find a clinic that suits your needs and budget.
A psychologist or psychiatrist can conduct a private ADHD assessment, as they are the only healthcare professionals competent to diagnose ADHD. These professionals are trained to observe, talk to and administer psychometric tests to assess ADHD symptoms. The assessment process will include questionnaires to determine if you show enough signs of ADHD as well as observations at school and home (if appropriate) as well as a comprehensive psychological evaluation and the discussion of your family's medical history.
Psychologists are also able recognize comorbid disorders that may co-exist with ADHD like anxiety and depression. Being able to identify these conditions and treated can bring significant benefits to the health of a person and reduce the necessity for GPs to prescribe other medications.
After a diagnosis is made, the clinician will suggest treatment options and suggest ways to manage the symptoms, which could include education, support at home or at work, exercise, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. If medication is prescribed, a shared-care agreement may be necessary between the GPs and patients.
Untreated ADHD can cause serious and long-lasting issues like criminality, substance abuse, and even a decline in life expectancy. Untreated ADHD could have the same impact as untreated Type 2 Diabetes in middle age. Therefore, private adhd assessment is vital that patients receive the assistance and support they require.
What to Expect During a Private Assessment
If you suspect you have ADHD or think your child has ADHD, scheduling an evaluation may be overwhelming. Once you have an appointment scheduled, however you can breathe a sigh relief.
It is important that you select a specialist who has been trained in ADHD assessment. They are medical professionals, typically psychiatrists or psychologists. They will review your symptoms, history and conduct a medical exam. You will be asked to complete one or more of the standardized behavior rating scores based on research that compares the behavior of people suffering from ADHD and those who do not.
These assessments will be discussed during your appointment. Depending on the outcome of your examination, you may receive the diagnosis of ADHD or a different problem such as anxiety, depression or learning disabilities as well as alcohol and drug abuse or other mental health issues. If you are diagnosed with ADHD the psychiatrist will discuss your treatment options with you. Generally, it is recommended to combine a treatment plan with expert coaching. This approach has been proven to provide the best long-term results for symptom control for people suffering from ADHD.
Get suggestions from your patients or healthcare professionals you trust when selecting a psychiatrist or a psychologist to conduct your examination. Once you've chosen an expert, make sure you verify their academic credentials and professional certifications as well as whether they have expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
Your appointment will be scheduled and confirmed after you have completed the pre-screening questions. Once you've booked an appointment the forms will be on your portal dashboard. They must be returned to your clinician within a specific time. They are essential to the appointment, since your doctor will not be able to meet you until the forms have been approved and reviewed.
It is important to be honest during your assessment with the psychiatrist or psychologist performing the assessment. This will help them determine the most accurate diagnosis and determine the best treatment options. It is also important to talk about all your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. For instance, if you have trouble keeping track of your finances or performing tasks at home or at work you should mention that to the practitioner.
What to Expect Following a Private Assessment
A private assessment starts with a consultation focused on the symptoms and medical history. In this process, it is important for the person being evaluated to be candid and honest. They should not conceal information out of shame or concern about criticism. The accuracy of information will determine the quality of the evaluation and treatment recommendations.
A questionnaire is often provided to the patient by the psychiatrist. The purpose of this questionnaire is to help doctors identify and evaluate the various symptoms of adult ADHD such as the inattention and impulsivity. The psychiatrist will also inquire about the impact that the symptoms have had on the individual's life, and may examine the person's relationships with others as well.
A majority of private assessments will involve the family member or close friend for additional information. The psychiatrist will want to find out if symptoms are present at home or if the person is under extreme stress. It is difficult to determine the extent of these effects when a person is alone with psychiatrist. This is why someone who is intimately familiar with them can be a valuable source of feedback.
Some specialists may employ additional tools during an assessment, such as cognitive tests or a neuropsychological test. These can give an extensive picture of the individual's strengths and weaknesses and allow the doctor to find any comorbidities that could be contributing to their symptoms.
Report writing is typically the final stage of an evaluation. The report will include the diagnosis and a treatment plan if appropriate. The report will also contain suggestions on how to manage ADHD symptoms and improve functioning at school, work and at home.
If you suspect you or your child might be suffering from ADHD or other disorders, a private assessment could be a great option. While it is possible to obtain an ADHD diagnosis through the NHS however, the wait times can be long. Private assessments are more efficient and you can choose your individual specialist. This makes the process less stressful.