How to Get a Private Adult ADHD Assessment
Getting diagnosed with ADHD isn't easy especially for adults. private adhd assessment uk aren't aware of how to recognize ADHD in adults, or only have a limited set of diagnostic tools.
Using self-assessment tools may provide some clues, however the most accurate diagnosis can only be made by a qualified professional. This includes clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologists) and physicians (psychiatrists) and medical social workers.
What is a Private Assessment?
Many people who suspect they have ADHD might seek out private medical attention in order to receive a diagnosis as well as a prescription for medication. It is important to keep in mind that only psychiatrists who have professional training and experience in working with ADHD in adult patients are able to diagnose ADHD. Counsellors and mental health professionals can discuss ADHD symptoms however they are not able to provide an official diagnosis.
The primary method for diagnosing ADHD is a structured clinical interview and questionnaires. They are typically built on research that compares the behaviors of ADHD sufferers to those without it. During the assessment, it is important that the person be honest and open and not hide information or hide any difficulties they may be facing. The clinician will inquire about the severity and presence of symptoms over time and in different situations. They will also discuss family history, any other mental health issues or drug and/or alcohol use.
A psychiatric specialist will conduct an assessment of the symptoms and their affect the person's daily activities. This is a more detailed evaluation than a standard psychiatric evaluation, so it is essential to schedule an appointment ahead of time. Bring a close family member or a friend to offer support and feedback. Sometimes other psychological, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological tests are performed in conjunction with the clinical assessment to determine whether ADHD is present, or if other conditions are causing symptoms.
The clinician will explain to the patient what to do after the assessment. They will usually talk about the appropriateness of medication and decide on a holistic treatment plan. Some clinics provide fast adjustment services for patients who want to begin taking medication immediately. This is typically only available for a select group of patients who meet certain criteria that include being over 18 and not suffering from a pre-existing medical condition that prevents them from starting treatment immediately (e.g. Cardiovascular disease or hyperthyroidism.
How do I schedule an appointment for a Private Assessment?
If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned about the effects it may have on your relationships, work or general wellbeing it is possible to have an assessment done privately. You can also request your GP for an appointment with an expert. The NHS Right to Choose scheme allows them to do this. This means that you can select the health center or hospital of your choosing.
Once you've been referred for an appointment, it will be booked for you to complete the clinical assessment, usually within several weeks. The assessment will be conducted face-to-face or via the internet and will include an organized interview with an expert in the field. This appointment is essential as without it, a diagnosis cannot be made. It is also helpful to bring a loved one with you to gather additional information, though this is not necessary.
Your clinician will discuss your medical history, symptoms and how they are affecting you. They will also ask how long the symptoms have been present for. You can expect to be asked questions about your personal and social life, how you deal with the symptoms, and how they impact on your work or relationships. It is quite normal to be nervous about the first consultation, however our psychiatrists have years of experience in making you feel secure and at ease.
The assessment will also include tests for diagnostics in addition to the structured interview. They are typically the QbCheck or QbTest. Both of these are CE marked and FDA/TGA approved to aid in the diagnosis of adults suffering from ADHD and use a shortened version of the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults Version 5 (DIVA5). The results of the test as well as clinical judgment are used to make an accurate diagnosis.
It is very important that you receive a proper diagnosis because left untreated it can cause serious problems with relationships, work and wellbeing. It is crucial to keep in mind that medical professionals might have preconceived notions about who they believe has ADHD and this could affect their ability provide the correct diagnosis.
What happens during the time of a Private Assessment?
While every doctor will have their own process for evaluating patients, there are certain procedures that all physicians consider necessary for a complete ADHD evaluation. These include an exhaustive diagnosis interview, information gathered from outside sources (such spouse or other family member), standard behavior rating scales for ADHD and other types of tests that are deemed appropriate by therapists.
The diagnostic interview is typically the first step in the process. The person being assessed will be asked an array of questions designed to prompt them to reflect on how they've been behaving and then to explain how their behaviors influence their lives. This will take an hour or more. It is essential to get a complete and honest response from the patient or a family member. Some patients may feel embarrassed or hesitant to talk about their behavior, which can negatively impact the quality of your evaluation.
During the interview, the examiner will ask questions about the effects of ADHD on the person's relationships and life. They will also inquire about the history of their medical condition and how long they've been experiencing symptoms of ADHD. This is an important part of the evaluation because it will help determine whether a diagnosis of ADHD is appropriate.
The examiner will then fill out the scales of behavioral ratings that are designed to be standardized for ADHD. These scales are based on research that compares the people who suffer from ADHD with those who do not suffer from ADHD. They provide important objective information. These rating scales are usually completed by the person being evaluated and their spouse.
Broad-spectrum scales for screening for anxiety or depression are frequently included in an ADHD assessment, as are tests of specific capabilities (such as vocabulary development, language development recall, memory and motor abilities). Sometimes, the doctor may decide that a different kind of psychometric or psychological test is required and order one in accordance with the need.
At Priory, we are highly adept at examining differential diagnosis (what other conditions may have symptoms that overlap with ADHD). For example, a person who is diagnosed with anxiety may be recommended psychotherapy as well as medication to optimise the treatment program.
What happens after a Private Assessment?
If you or someone you know suffers from ADHD being diagnosed can help you manage the issues that are negatively impacting your life. This is especially relevant for adults who experience difficulty at work or in their relationships, are struggling to keep up with household tasks or lose track of things or struggle to organize or plan an everyday schedule. The first step is to locate a doctor who is able to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You could ask your general practitioner for a recommendation, or an acquaintance or a relative. You can also call a mental health clinic or medical school to get recommendations. Join an ADHD support group to talk with other members.
A thorough ADHD assessment can be done in person or via the internet. The clinician will talk to you, review relevant medical history, and may suggest psychometric tests to help you understand your cognitive capabilities. These tests include standardized behavioural ratings for ADHD psychometrics across the broad spectrum and specific test of ability.
The doctor will combine all the data from various sources to provide diagnostic opinions regarding your ADHD and any other learning or psychiatric disorders identified during the assessment. The clinician will discuss the treatment options and help you create a comprehensive plan that includes medication, therapy and/or other psychosocial interventions.
When a final diagnosis has been made and the clinician has written an extensive report that will be provided to you and your GP. If you're interested in receiving prescription medication through the NHS the doctor will give your GP with all necessary documentation. You will need to attend follow-up appointments with your GP to ensure they keep track of your progress and make sure the medication is working.
You may choose to continue with private care or return to NHS care after your psychiatrist has given you a written summary of the evaluation and has agreed upon a holistic treatment plan. You will need to have a minimum three months of medication stabilisation, and follow-up appointments before you can return to the NHS.