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How to Pay For a Private ADHD Assessment ADHD is an illness that is common and is difficult to control. A clear diagnosis can make a huge difference in your life. It is important to keep in mind that ADHD does not mean that you can't live a fulfilling life. You can receive a legally recognized diagnosis from a psychiatrist or any other “appropriately qualified healthcare professional” [Nice Guidelines]. This includes psychologists. Cost You can pay for your personal ADHD evaluation using a variety of different methods. The Psychiatry UK offers the option of a monthly direct debit, and payment can also be made via private medical insurance (including Bupa and Aviva). Alternatively you may choose to fund your assessment on your own or medication. NHS funding is available for adult ADHD assessments through the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select any clinically appropriate provider, in the event that the Integrated Care Board or NHS England has a contract with them. You will be assessed either by a psychiatrist or an ADHD nurse specialist who is trained to assess ADHD. They are the only healthcare professionals who can diagnose ADHD in the UK according to the Nice guidelines. During the test, you will be asked questions about your childhood and the past to determine if you meet the ADHD criteria. You will also be asked questions about your symptoms and how they affect you. The examination will take between 45 to 90 minutes. If the specialist psychiatrist or nursing staff determines that you suffer from ADHD they will let you know and will discuss treatment options. You do not have accept the diagnosis. You can ask another doctor to review your symptoms if you're not satisfied with the results. After the evaluation your doctor will then provide you or your GP a written report. This will include a description of your symptoms and their impact and an agreed-upon holistic treatment plan. This information can be used by your GP to decide what treatment you will receive. Some GPs will agree to an agreement of shared care with a private provider, to allow you to receive medication through the NHS. This could help you save money on the cost of your medication as you only have to pay for the NHS prescription fee. Some GPs may not accept this arrangement, so be sure to confirm your appointment prior to booking one. The NHS will only prescribe ADHD medication to adults who have received an official diagnosis. If you are diagnosed as an adult with ADHD and you are responsible for paying for your private assessment as well any medication. Waiting time According to a study by the charity ADHD Action the report states that there is an 'waiting crisis' in the UK for ADHD assessments. According to the charity, many people wait for longer than seven years before they are able to be assessed. The waiting time can cause anxiety and stress for those with ADHD. It is estimated that 1.5 million people in the UK are affected by the condition. Some private companies provide ADHD assessments that are not accepted by the NHS. This means you won't be in a position to access the associated medications through the NHS. If you're thinking about a private assessment of ADHD make sure that the psychiatrist is registered with the General Medical Council. Also, remember that a private diagnosis does not permit you to access any workplace protections that you could have with an NHS-recognised diagnosis. While private companies may have shorter wait times than the NHS however, they are not without their difficulties. The BBC's investigation found that private companies are using inaccurate diagnostic techniques and are giving incorrect diagnoses. This could have serious consequences for patients. GPs are concerned about the current arrangements for ADHD assessment and would like to see more ringfenced funding to improve the service. Despite the fact many GPs are overwhelmed by ADHD referrals, it is important to keep in mind that only a specialist is qualified to diagnose ADHD. Many people are choosing to have their ADHD evaluated privately. They will not have to endure the long waiting times for an assessment, and receive a more accurate assessment and treatment plan. A private ADHD assessment is usually an appointment with the psychiatrist as well as a specialist in clinical nursing. This may include an interview, observations, and questionnaires. Answering these questions correctly and truthfully will allow the Psychiatrist to determine if you suffer from ADHD. The Psychiatrist writes an assessment report that you can provide to your GP. If your Psychiatrist suggests that you take medication, then you'll be required to sign a shared-care contract with your GP. You'll have to pay the NHS prescription cost, but it is your GP who will renew the prescription and decide on the next treatments. This is not a guaranteed option, and some GPs are reluctant to share care with private patients. Experience If you're an adult with ADHD and are diagnosed, it can be an important step towards understanding your challenges and implementing strategies to overcome them. It is important to understand what you're up against and why you struggle to succeed in your work, relationships and in your personal life. Many struggle to be diagnosed and it is difficult to find a medical facility that will accept them. Private providers can help to speed up your waiting time and ensure that you get an appointment with a certified ADHD specialist. These tests typically last 45 to 90 minute and include an interview and a discussion of your symptoms. You may be asked to share examples of your life in order to aid the assessment process. During the appointment, your therapist will determine whether you meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis. In addition to evaluating the traits of ADHD Health professionals from private clinics will also examine your mental health history and any other health issues you might have. This will allow them to determine if you suffer from any other conditions that could interfere with your ADHD. It is important to discuss these issues prior the appointment, since they could affect your treatment. Many people who suffer from untreated ADHD experience problems with their interactions, work and overall well-being. This is a result of the fact that untreated ADHD can trigger an inattention and impulsive behavior. Additionally it can cause anxiety, depression, and other psychological difficulties. It is therefore important to seek out a professional diagnosis and treatment as soon as you notice any. Currently, adults who wish to be diagnosed with ADHD are faced with long wait times at NHS. This is due to a slow system, with NHS services overwhelmed by referrals. It can take up to one year to be seen by an ADHD clinic. This can be frustrating, especially for adults who have struggled for a long time, not knowing the cause of their problems. A few adults opt for an in-person ADHD evaluation. Private ADHD assessments can be costly, but can give you the answers you require and the assurance that you're receiving treatment from a professional. Additionally, some private ADHD assessment providers have an arrangement for shared care with GPs. This could mean that you pay for your medication through the NHS. Reputation There is a growing concern that some private businesses are systematically diagnosing adult ADHD with low quality assessments and unqualified staff. This was recently highlighted in a BBC Panorama investigation. GPs are urged to refer patients who believe they may have ADHD to their specialist NHS Adult ADHD services. They must be aware that patients may be misdiagnosed and given medication they do not require. Only psychiatrists and ADHD nurses with specialized training can evaluate ADHD in a formal manner. Counsellors and other mental health professionals can't diagnose ADHD. However they can help you recognize the symptoms and offer support. If check out here choose to have a private ADHD assessment, ensure that the psychiatrist or the nurse is registered on the General Medical Council's specialist register. They must be able prescribe medications that are only available after the diagnosis of psychiatric disorder is made. A thorough ADHD assessment requires a series of appointments, tests, and observations. If your doctor suggests an ADHD evaluation, make sure you choose a provider who has a good reputation. A reputable provider will take time to meet with you and the context of your life. The NHS website lists approved providers.