How to Get a Private Adult ADHD Assessment
Being diagnosed with ADHD can be difficult, especially as adults. Many healthcare professionals aren't familiar with ADHD symptoms for adults, or may have limited tools for diagnosing.
Using self-assessment tools may provide some clues, however an accurate diagnosis must be made by a certified professional. This includes clinical psychologists, physicians (psychiatrist or neurologists) and medical social workers.
What is a Private Assessment?
People who suspect that they suffer from ADHD might seek out private healthcare to obtain an assessment and prescription for medication. It is important to keep in mind that only psychiatrists with a specialization and experience working with ADHD in adult patients can diagnose ADHD. Counsellors and mental health professionals can discuss ADHD symptoms but they are unable to give a formal diagnosis.
The main method for diagnosing ADHD is through an interview that is structured and accompanied by questionnaires. These are typically based on research comparing the behaviors of ADHD patients with and without it. During the assessment it is essential for the individual to be honest and transparent and not bury information or conceal any issues they may be facing. The doctor will ask the patient about the severity and frequency of symptoms in various situations and over time. They will also discuss family history and any other mental health problems or drug and alcohol use.
A psychiatrist will evaluate the symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. This is a more thorough assessment than a typical mental health evaluation, which is why it is important to schedule an appointment prior to the time. It is a good idea to bring a family member or friend to assist the person and to give feedback. Sometimes, additional psychological, learning disabilities, or neuropsychological tests are used in conjunction with the clinical evaluation to determine if ADHD is present, or if any other disorders are contributing to the symptoms.
The doctor will inform the patient what to do following the assessment. They will usually discuss whether the medication is appropriate and come up with a comprehensive treatment plan. Some clinics provide a rapid stabilisation and titration service for patients who wish to start taking medication straight immediately. This is usually only offered for a select group of clients who meet certain criteria, such as being over 18 and not having a pre-existing medical condition that prevents the patient from taking medication immediately (e.g. Cardiovascular disease or hyperthyroidism.
How do I make an appointment for a Private Assessment?
If you suspect that you have ADHD and are concerned about the impact it could be having on your work, relationships or general well-being you can seek an assessment privately. Alternatively, you can ask your GP to refer you to an expert. The NHS Right to Choose scheme allows them to do this. This means that you can select the wellness center or hospital you prefer.
After you've been referred to the clinic, an appointment is scheduled to complete the clinical evaluation, typically within two weeks. This will take place face-to-face or via the internet and will include a structured interview with a specialist in the field. It is crucial to attend this appointment as without it, a diagnosis will not be made. You can also bring your family member along to collect collateral information. This is not necessary.
Your clinician will discuss your medical history, symptoms and how they are affecting you. They will also inquire about how long the symptoms have been present. You will likely be asked questions about your personal and social life, how you cope with the symptoms, and whether they affect your work or relationships. It's normal to be nervous at the first appointment, but our psychiatrists have the expertise to make you feel at ease and safe.
The assessment will also comprise diagnostic tests in addition to the structured interview. They will typically include 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 employ an adapted version of the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults Version 5 (DIVA5). The results of the test are combined with clinical judgment to provide an accurate diagnosis.
It is very important that you receive a valid diagnosis, as if left untreated, it can lead to serious issues with relationships, work and overall wellbeing. It is important to keep in mind that medical professionals may have preconceived notions about who they think may have ADHD and this can have an impact on their ability to provide a correct diagnosis.
What happens at what happens during a Private Assessment?
While each doctor has their own process for evaluating patients, there are certain procedures that all doctors consider essential for a comprehensive ADHD assessment. This includes an exhaustive diagnosis interview, information gathered from outside sources (such spouse or other family members), typical behavior rating scales for ADHD, and other types tests for psychometrics that are considered appropriate by the therapists.
The diagnostic interview is usually the first step in the process. private adhd assessment london being assessed will be asked several questions designed to get them to think about the way they have been behaving and to describe how those actions affect their lives. It could take an hour or more. It is important to obtain a complete and honest answer from the patient or family member. Some patients may feel uncomfortable or shy to speak about their behavior, which could affect the quality of your assessment.
During the interview, the examiner will ask about how the symptoms of ADHD have affected the person's life and their relationships. The examiner will also ask the person about their medical history and length of time they have been suffering from the symptoms of ADHD. This is an important part of the examination because it helps determine if a diagnosis of ADHD is appropriate.
At the conclusion of the interview, the examiner will fill out some standard behavioral rating scales for ADHD. These tests are built on research that compares the people who suffer from ADHD with people who don't have ADHD. They are a valuable source of objective information. Usually the person being assessed and their significant other will complete these rating scales together.
Broad-spectrum scales for screening for anxiety or depression are often included in an ADHD assessment as are tests for specific capabilities (such as language development, vocabulary recall, memory recall and motor skills). Sometimes, the doctor may decide that another type of psychometric test or psychological assessment is needed and order it.
At Priory we are skilled in examining differential diagnoses (what other conditions might have symptoms that overlap with ADHD). For instance, a patient who is diagnosed with anxiety may be recommended psychotherapy as well in a medication plan to enhance the treatment plan.
What happens after the Private Assessment?
If you or someone you know has ADHD being diagnosed can help you manage the issues that are negatively impacting your life. This is especially relevant for adults who experience difficulties at work or in their relationships. are struggling to keep up with household tasks and lose track of their priorities or struggle to plan or organise the day-to-day routine. The first step is to find an expert doctor to perform an ADHD assessment for adults. You could ask your general practitioner for recommendations, or ask someone you know. You can also contact the medical school or mental health clinic to get recommendations. Join an ADHD support group to chat with other members.
Face-to-face or online An in-depth ADHD assessment is available. The doctor will conduct an interview, look over your clinical history, and recommend psychometric tests to understand the cognitive abilities. These tests include standardized behavioural ratings for ADHD psychometrics, broad spectrum psychometrics and specific ability tests.
The clinician will incorporate all the information gathered from different sources to provide diagnostic advice regarding your ADHD and any other learning or psychiatric disorder that are identified during the test. The clinician will discuss treatment options and can help you create a comprehensive plan that includes medication, therapy and/or other psychosocial interventions.
When a final diagnosis has been determined the doctor will write an extensive report to be provided to you and your GP. If you're looking to receive prescription medication through the NHS, the clinician will give your GP with all the required documentation. You will need to attend periodic appointments with your GP to ensure that they keep track of your progress and ensure that the medication is working.
After your doctor has provided you a written report and agreed on a comprehensive treatment plan, you are able to decide if you want to continue with private or NHS care. Generally, a minimum of three months of medication stabilisation and follow up appointments will be required before you can transfer back to the NHS.