How to Get an ADHD Assessment on the NHS
In an NHS examination medical professionals will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. You'll also be asked about your family background and general health.
You can also get an ADHD assessment privately. Certain private healthcare providers provide this service through the Right to Choose pathway.
Your GP
If you suspect that you or someone you know suffers from ADHD The first option is to talk to your GP. Your GP will consider your concerns seriously and ask you to explain your symptoms. They will then send you to an ADHD clinic for an assessment.
The clinic will assess and treat your symptoms, including treatment and medication if required. During this process your doctor will also identify other medical and psychological conditions that can trigger similar symptoms. They will collect information from you and other, such as teachers, family members, or even your friends. You will be required to fill out a range of questionnaires and forms. For example the ASRS v1 from the World Health Organisation. It is recommended to prepare it in advance to ensure you remember to bring it to your appointment.
Your GP has a legal obligation to pay for an ADHD evaluation under Right To Choose, but they may not be familiar with the procedure. If this is the case, we suggest that you print off and present to your GP our support letter from ADHD UK. You can find it by clicking here.
When you go to your assessment, you'll be asked to give a detailed description of your symptoms as well as the issues they are causing in different environments, such as school or at work. You will be asked to provide instances of when your symptoms have caused you to experience problems and disturbances in your daily life. For adults, this may include incidents from childhood.
If you are diagnosed with ADHD and your psychiatrist is able to send paperwork to your GP for a shared-care agreement. Your GP will then be responsible for prescribing any medication you require - and may recommend CBT therapy to help you manage your symptoms.
After receiving your diagnosis you will be able to use it to avail support services such as reasonable adjustments or Disabled Student allowance at the university and, if necessary you can submit a request to the DVLA for an exemption from driving restrictions. Your doctor may also refer you to a psychologist who could provide additional support, depending on your requirements.
Right to choose
If you're a citizen of the UK you are able to choose your healthcare provider. This is known as the "Right to Choose". The NHS offers a wide range of services, including ADHD assessment and treatment, and you are able to choose a healthcare provider that suits your preferences and needs. It is important to know that the quality of care and treatment offered by private healthcare providers are not the same. It's crucial to select healthcare providers who have an established track record of providing efficient ADHD treatment and assessment.
Making use of your Right to Choice when you're getting an ADHD assessment will help you get through long waiting times. Find out more information about this on the NHS website. adhd assessment near me can also print and download a letter from ADHD UK to explain the Right to Choose to your GP. This will make it easier for your GP to accept your referral to a private ADHD assessor.
Once you've selected your doctor They will make an appointment for you. It is likely to be in person, but can also be conducted via video call depending on your specific circumstances. During the ADHD assessment your psychiatrist might ask you questions regarding your symptoms, your history, and conduct other tests, if required. This might include an assessment of memory and a symptom checklist and questionnaires regarding how your symptoms affect your daily life.
After your assessment, your psychiatrist will draft a report that will outline any diagnosis and recommend the next steps. If you are diagnosed with ADHD your psychiatrist will discuss medications as appropriate. They may also speak with you about your responsibilities (such as keeping in touch with your GP) and other health issues you may have.
You can also self-refer without a referral from your GP to an independent ADHD assessor. This can be an easier way to diagnose ADHD when you have the funds to pay for a professional assessment. It's essential to consult your insurance company prior to scheduling an appointment.
Private Healthcare
If you think that your symptoms of ADHD are having a serious impact on your life and you don't wish to wait for the NHS to determine the severity of your condition, it might be worthwhile looking into private healthcare to get an assessment. Under the "Right To Choose" process in England, it is your legal right to decide which provider to consult with your GP – as long as they satisfy NHS specifications and are not more costly than the NHS.
A private healthcare professional will conduct a thorough clinical interview to ask you questions about your medical background, family history and the severity of your symptoms. You will also be asked to complete self-reporting questionnaires to determine how ADHD affects your daily functioning and how it affects your relationships. They will then analyze the results to rule out any other medical or psychological conditions that could be mimicking the symptoms of ADHD. If they determine you have ADHD then a customized plan of treatment will be developed specifically for you. This may include medication or psychotherapy.
When it comes to accessing medication through the NHS after receiving a diagnosis from a private doctor, it's important to note that a majority of GPs aren't willing to sign something called a 'shared care agreement' where they will assume your care from your private doctor (even for ADHD tablets). They do not believe they have the expertise or knowledge of ADHD medication to make informed decisions.
If you choose to take the private path it's important to keep in mind that the price of private treatment and assessments aren't the same across the UK. For instance the East of England was found to be the most expensive region for both children and adults ADHD assessments with follow-up consultations costing around 20% more than the national average. You can get an idea of the expected expenses for your region by using our ADHD cost calculator online here. If you do not want to pay for private healthcare There are alternatives.
Alternative Routes
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, so it manifests in children as hyperactive or impulsive behavior. Adults may be affected by anxiety and restlessness, especially when under pressure at work or at home. This can lead to an underlying issue being masked by a psychiatrist for many years before it's finally addressed.
It's a good idea to see your GP in the event that you, as an adult, you suspect you might have ADHD. Your GP will start by conducting an initial examination taking notes on your symptoms and medical history. They will then refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
When you arrive at your appointment, you'll be asked about the underlying causes of your ADHD symptoms, including how they affect your daily life. You will be asked about any mental health issues you have suffered from in the past, as well as your family's history of mental illness. It is essential to disclose any other comorbid conditions like anxiety or depression, to the person who is conducting the assessment, as it can create confusion when determining ADHD.
If your doctor determines that you do suffer from ADHD If they find that you do, they will recommend a treatment plan which may include medication. Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD However, it's possible that they will recommend non-stimulant medications such as atomoxetine Venlafaxine or bupropion hydrochloride. These medications aren't addictive and can help manage your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS offers a broad range of services for adults who wish to receive an ADHD diagnosis, but waiting times can be long. You can also pick private healthcare providers who offer shorter waiting periods. A number of private healthcare providers have been accepted by the NHS as part of their Right to Choose initiative.
Obtaining an ADHD assessment and diagnosis in adulthood can have life-changing consequences. It can allow you to focus on your relationships and career rather than worrying about unmanaged ADHD symptoms. It can also give you clarity and access to support that you didn't even know existed. Onebright is here to assist you through the entire process if you are an adult who is considering an ADHD diagnosis.