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Is Tech Making ADHD Private Diagnosis Better Or Worse?
ADHD Private Diagnosis

An adult suffering from ADHD might be referred by their doctor to a private healthcare specialist for an assessment. This can be done in person or via video calls.

The BBC's Panorama investigation has highlighted some clinics that provide inaccurate diagnoses. This puts vulnerable patients at risk.

What happens if I don't receive a diagnosis?

A professional diagnosis will give you access to treatment options and help you reduce the feeling of confusion and self-doubt. Having a diagnosis also helps family members to comprehend the condition and how it impacts a person's daily life. adhd diagnosis uk adults can result in stronger relationships and a more informed approach to managing ADHD.

In the UK, the first step is to talk with your GP and discuss the reasons you believe you suffer from ADHD. Your GP should be concerned about your concerns and recommend you to a specialist to conduct an assessment. You can speed up the process by asking your GP to sign up for a plan that lets you choose your personal provider.

Then, you will undergo an extensive psychiatric evaluation which includes a thorough psychological test and clinical interview. It is always beneficial to bring a friend or family member with to provide support. After the evaluation the specialist will be able to diagnose ADHD and offer treatment recommendations. It is recommended that you plan for your appointment to last between two and three hours.

A private diagnosis specialist in adhd can assist you in avoiding the pitfalls of trying to obtain an appointment through the NHS. When providing care to you the healthcare professionals must still adhere with evidence-based practices and National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines.

If your doctor is unable to identify you as having ADHD the doctor should explain the reason. It could be because they don't believe that you meet their criteria for the disorder, or that they believe that another condition better explains your traits (symptoms). This is perfectly fine and shouldn't stop you from seeking an additional opinion.

One of the most common reasons why adults struggle to receive a diagnosis of ADHD is that they are often misunderstood by their GP or other medical professionals. They might be told that their problems are a result of not working hard enough or that they are lazy or negligent. This can be extremely disappointing however it is important to keep in mind that these kinds of myths do not come from research-based evidence.

What happens if I do not agree?

Many people with ADHD struggle to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Some doctors have a lack of awareness of the condition and may not be aware of the nature of the condition or how to diagnose it. Some might ignore the signs or assume the person is masking the symptoms. Some doctors are confused about the distinction between ADHD, depression (everyone gets down at times) and anxiety (which can have the same symptoms).

Certain medical professionals who aren't aware of ADHD might mistake the patient's behavior for their unmanaged ADHD or think that they are suffering from depression or an anxiety disorder as a result. This is particularly challenging for women with ADHD who's symptoms are more subtle and easier to overlook. This can result in inappropriate treatment of the symptoms using antidepressants or other medications that are not helpful in treating ADHD.

Some private assessment providers require a letter of recommendation from your GP to set up an appointment. This process is not always easy as NHS doctors can bat ADHD referrals back to themselves (about 50% of ADHD assessments are referred and then promptly batted back by GPs) on spurious grounds.

The GP will ask you questions regarding your life and how ADHD symptoms impact it. This can include questions regarding your home, work, and family, depending on the doctor. They will also talk about the different types and strengths of medications available to treat ADHD and determine which one would be most suitable for you. Most doctors will recommend stimulant medication but if they find it doesn't work for you, they could suggest a nonstimulant such as Atomoxetine or Venlafaxine.

When you receive a diagnosis your doctor will then send you a document to your GP which outlines the diagnosis as well as the recommended treatment. This is referred to as a "shared care agreement'. Some doctors will accept these agreements, but not all will. If your GP doesn't, you will need to continue to pay privately for appointments and prescriptions.

What happens if I get a diagnosis, but don't wish to take medication?

A mental health professional can help develop a treatment plan that is tailored to each individual's needs. Early treatment is vital and could include therapy, medication or lifestyle adjustments. Children with ADHD can also be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. This is a pattern or aggression toward other people or serious infringements of social norms and regulations at school, home or with peers.

What is the procedure if I decide to drive?

As the DVLA thinks of ADHD as a impairment, having the condition can make it more difficult for you to obtain your driver's license. This is only a possibility if your symptoms are having an extended and significant impact on your daily life. You would need to discuss this with your doctor.

Similarly, having ADHD may affect how well you perform when driving, especially when your symptoms include impulsivity or erratic driving behaviours. As a result, you might find that you struggle with organizing your car or remembering to take medication before getting behind the wheel. If you're concerned about this, choose to drive with someone else or only drive when there's no anyone else in the vehicle.


As you can see that the Panorama programme gave a very biased negative perception of private treatment for ADHD assessments. We hear from a lot of adults who receive a diagnosis without a drug titration, and they are required to return to their GP and wait at the back of the queue for an NHS assessment because they were'sneaked into a private clinic. This doesn't only discredit the NHS but also adds to the stigma of the condition, which many feel they are judged for, even by their family members.

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