ADHD Diagnosis - Why You Should Seek Help Privately
Private adult ADHD assessments have become more popular as wait times are at an all-time high. Patients in England with a GP can choose to have their ADHD assessed privately making use of their 'Right of Choice'.
This allows patients to be assessed and diagnosed within a matter of months, as opposed to waiting years on the NHS.
Waiting at various times
An increasing number of people are seeking a diagnosis for ADHD. In www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-assessments/ , it is estimated that more than one million adults aren't diagnosed with ADHD. Waiting times for NHS assessments have increased dramatically. In some regions, it could take as long as seven years for an assessment appointment to become available. High-profile individuals, such as Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins and Johnny Vegas have also spoken out about their experiences with the disease. Many adults who require medical attention must seek it privately.
In some cases patients were told that they would need wait 18 months to be given the prescription for ADHD medication. This is due to a shortage of staff in the public health system. The problem is particularly acute in Greater Manchester where service providers struggle to meet the demand. Referrals result from the absence of a top down strategy for ADHD. This has led to the outsourcing of adult ADHD evaluation to private providers such as Psychiatry UK. The result is long wait times for patients.
A BBC Panorama investigation has sparked debate about how private clinics diagnose ADHD. The investigation was conducted by an undercover journalist who went to three private clinics, and all of them diagnosed the patient with the condition. The BBC has claimed that these clinics rush through assessments and prescribing powerful drugs without providing proper guidance regarding possible adverse effects. However, the BBC's report has been criticized for failing to focus on the wider issues that surround the treatment of ADHD services in the UK.
The NHS has more than 10,000 adult ADHD cases on its waiting list. The increasing awareness of the condition and the increasing number of people seeking a diagnosis are to blame. The demand for NHS services has surpassed the capacity of the service, and some areas aren't able to provide an assessment. For those fortunate enough to get an assessment through the NHS will have long waits before they are able to receive treatment.
There are a variety of ways to reduce the time required to wait for ADHD diagnoses. First, they must talk to their GP to explain why they believe they may be suffering from ADHD. The doctor should be concerned and refer them to an assessment.
Psychiatrists
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD as an adult it can be a bit difficult. There is a lot of demand for ADHD tests, but the NHS is struggling to meet the demand. This has led to many alternatives, from online assessments to private clinics. These are not always accurate and can lead to mistaken diagnosis.
If you're seeking a diagnosis for ADHD it is essential to seek out a psychiatrist that is specialized in this condition. A general practitioner or a psychologist may not possess the knowledge, skills and expertise required to diagnose ADHD. If you're not sure who to call ask your local mental health services for the list of approved providers. You can ask your GP for a referral to a specialist. This is the quickest method to get an ADHD assessment.
ADHD is becoming more and more common, and a lot of people seek assistance. There is no cure for ADHD, however there are treatments that can improve symptoms. This includes psychiatric medication and psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications. Certain people also take supplements to reduce symptoms.
A psychiatrist who specialises in ADHD can help you find the best treatment for your symptoms. They can assess your symptoms, which could include difficulties in concentrating, problems with memory, poor sleeping habits and emotional dysregulation. They will also inquire about your childhood and your family history. Then, they will make a plan specifically tailored to your needs. This could include psychotherapy or medication.
You have a legal choice if your GP refers you to an adult ADHD assessment in England. This Right to Choose service allows you to select the clinic in your area that provides NHS assessments. You can also make use of a private clinic that does NHS assessments. These clinics have much shorter waiting times and also offer video calls.
The Psychiatrists of Anchor Psychiatry Group, Norfolk and Waveney, have combined experience of more than 23 years of providing holistic psychiatric assessments and psychotherapeutic interventions for adults. They specialize in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) alongside other presenting issues such as anxiety and depression.
Costs
There is no doubt that the demand for private ADHD tests is increasing and the trend is set to continue. It is partly down to increased awareness of the condition, an underfunded NHS and the fact that mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent. Many patients are aware of the damage that untreated ADHD could do to their relationships and careers and are willing to pay to be diagnosed to receive treatment.
The BBC Panorama documentary on private ADHD clinics raised concerns about companies exploiting vulnerable patients. The program revealed that some private clinics charge patients thousands of pounds for poor assessment services and poor aftercare. This is a serious problem that the government must address.
Currently, adults can choose the psychiatrist they would like to consult to make an appointment. This option is typically restricted to specific NHS health regions or doctors who have contracts with these providers. The GPs are often overwhelmed and not able to provide a complete service for adults suffering from ADHD. Private ADHD assessment services have increased in popularity because they are generally less expensive than NHS appointments.
Some of these private services are excellent however, others aren't as dependable and professional as the NHS. Some of these services charge for diagnosis, which could cause patients to become obsessed with their symptoms. This will not help their lives and will waste money that could have been used for other services such as depression or anxiety.
Some NHS services on the other hand, are exemplary, and provide a professional and complete service for adults suffering from ADHD. Maudsley Hospital, in London is a well-known center for adult ADHD assessment and treatment. However, even these services are struggling with the demands of an growing patient population, and they are unlikely to change unless the government improves investment in mental health care.
Insurance
It's costly to get a private ADHD assessment but it's well worth it if it's something you can afford. The diagnosis can improve your living quality and aid you in a variety of areas such as your work and relationships. Your insurance provider should be informed of any diagnosis in order to determine the best level of coverage for you.
Examine your policy's terms & conditions to determine if it covers ADHD tests. Axa PPP (private healthcare provider), Aviva (private health insurance provider), Bupa (private health insurance provider), and Vitality Health all have different policies. Some will not pay for the examination, while others will. It is essential to read the terms and condition carefully to fully understand what they cover.
Doctors may refuse to refer a patient for an ADHD evaluation due to a variety of reasons. However it isn't always the case. If your GP will not help you, try another. If your GP won't sign a shared-care agreement with you, you may seek a second opinion at an ADHD clinic. There are several online ADHD tests available however, they can be incorrect.