How to Get an ADHD Assessment on the NHS
During an NHS evaluation medical professionals will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they affect your life. You'll be asked questions about your family history and general health, as well as your symptoms.
You can also get an ADHD assessment privately. Some private healthcare providers offer 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 speak to your GP. Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and ask you to explain your symptoms. They will then send you to an ADHD clinic for assessment.
The clinic will assess your symptoms and develop a treatment plan, including medication (if required) and therapy. During this procedure your psychiatrist will also identify any other medical or psychological conditions that can cause similar symptoms. They will request information and also gather information from others, like your teachers, family members or even your friends. You might be required to fill out a number of forms or questionnaires, for instance the World Health Organisation's ASRS version 1 form. It is best to prepare this form in advance. will help you keep track of it and bring it to your appointment.
Your GP is legally obliged to pay for an ADHD assessment under Right To Choose - but they aren't necessarily knowledgeable about the process and may have difficulties in obtaining this. If this is the case, we suggest that you print off and hand to your GP our support letter from ADHD UK. You can download it here.
You will be asked to describe your symptoms in detail, and the impact they have on your daily life whether at school or at work. You will be asked to provide examples when your symptoms caused you to face problems or disruptions in your life. This will include childhood incidents for adults.
If your diagnosis indicates that you suffer from ADHD then your psychiatrist will write to your GP with paperwork for an agreement for shared care. Your GP will then be accountable for prescribing any medication you require. He or she may also suggest CBT therapy to help you manage your symptoms.
After you have received your diagnosis you will be able to use it to gain access to assistance services, such as reasonable adjustments or Disabled Students' Allowance at university, and if appropriate you should apply to the DVLA for an exemption from driving restrictions. Based on your specific needs, your psychiatrist will also be in a position to refer you to a specialist psychologist who will provide additional assistance.
Right to Choose
If view publisher site 're a resident of the United Kingdom, you have the right to choose who you go to for a healthcare provider. This is referred to as "Right to Choose." The NHS offers many services, including ADHD assessments, and you can choose a healthcare provider who suits your needs and preferences. It is important to know that the quality and care provided by private healthcare professionals will differ. This is why it's crucial to investigate and select healthcare providers with an established track record of offering effective ADHD assessment and treatment.
You can avoid long waiting times by exercising your right to choose when you receive an ADHD assessment. Find out more about this right on the NHS website. You can also download and print the letter from ADHD UK to give your GP explaining the Right to Choose process. This will help you get your GP to approve the referral to an individual ADHD assessment.
Once you've selected your healthcare provider They will make an appointment for you. It will most likely be in person, however it is also possible to schedule through video conferencing based on your specific circumstances. During the ADHD evaluation your psychiatrist might ask you questions regarding your symptoms, history and conduct additional tests if necessary. This might include tests for memory and a symptom checklist and questionnaires on how your symptoms affect your daily life.
After your evaluation, your psychiatrist will draft a report that will describe any diagnosis and recommend the next steps. If you're diagnosed with ADHD your psychiatrist will discuss medication when appropriate. They will also be able to talk with you about your responsibilities (such as staying in contact with your GP) and other health issues you might have.
Alternately, you can self-refer to an independent ADHD assessor without the need for a referral from your doctor. This is a simpler way to diagnose ADHD in the event that you have the funds to pay for a professional assessment. It's important to check with your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment.
Private Healthcare
If you think that your symptoms of ADHD are having a significant impact on your life, and you don't wish to wait for the NHS to determine the severity of your condition, it might be worth looking into private healthcare to get an assessment. The good news is that under the 'Right to Choose option in England, you are legally entitled to choose which healthcare provider to be referred by your GP provided that they meet NHS requirements and aren't more costly than the NHS could be.
A private healthcare provider will conduct a thorough medical interview to inquire about your medical history, family history and the severity of your symptoms. They will also require you to complete self-report questionnaires that assess the impact of your ADHD on your daily life and relationships. The results will be used to rule out any other medical or psychological conditions that may mimic the symptoms of ADHD. If they find you suffer from ADHD A personalised plan of treatment will be written for you. This may include medication or psychotherapy.
It is important to be aware that when you're seeking medication through the NHS following a private diagnosis, most GPs will not sign a "shared-care agreement that allows them to take the care of your private clinician. This is true even for ADHD tablets. This is because they don't believe that they have the necessary training or expertise in ADHD medication to be able to make informed decisions about what's best for you.
It's important to keep in mind that private assessments and treatments can vary greatly across the UK. For example, the East of England was found to be the most expensive place for both child and adult ADHD assessments, with follow-up consultations costing 20% more than the national average. Our ADHD cost calculator will give you an idea of the costs you can expect in your area. However, if you decide that the expense of private healthcare isn't an option for you, there are alternatives to obtaining an adhd assessment.
Alternative Routes
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, so it manifests itself in children as hyperactive or impulsive behavior. Adults are susceptible to irritability and restlessness, particularly when they are under pressure at work or home. This can lead to an underlying issue being hidden by a psychiatrist over many years before it is finally addressed.
It's a good idea to consult your GP when, as an adult, you suspect you might have ADHD. Your GP will begin by conducting an initial evaluation, gathering information about your symptoms and medical history. The doctor will then refer you on to a specialist such as psychiatrist or psychologist.
You will be asked to explain your ADHD symptoms and how they affect your life at the time of your appointment. You will be asked about any mental health issues that you've suffered from, as well as family history of mental illness. It is crucial to inform the person assessing you about any comorbidities, such as anxiety or depression, since they could cause confusion in the diagnosis of ADHD.
If your psychiatrist determines that you do have ADHD, they will then recommend a treatment plan that will usually include medications. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD however it is possible that they'll suggest 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 comprehensive path for adults who want to receive an ADHD diagnosis, however waiting times can be long. You can also opt for private healthcare providers who offer shorter wait periods. Private providers are often accepted by the NHS as part their Right to Choose initiative.
The process of obtaining an ADHD assessment and diagnosis in adulthood could have life-changing implications. It can allow you to focus on your relationships and career rather than worrying about unmanaged ADHD symptoms. It can also provide clarity and access to support that you did not know existed. If you're an adult contemplating an ADHD diagnosis, Onebright can support you at every step of the process.