Ten Common Misconceptions About Private Adult ADHD Assessment That Arent Always True

How to Get a Private Adult ADHD Assessment
It can be difficult to recognize ADHD particularly in adults. Many healthcare professionals don't know how to recognize ADHD in adults or may only have a limited set of diagnostic tools.
Self-assessment tools can provide some clues, however the most accurate diagnosis can only be determined by a trained professional. This includes clinical psychologists (psychiatrists or neurologists) as well as doctors (psychiatrists) and medical social workers.
What is a Private Assessment?
People who suspect they suffer from ADHD might seek out private medical attention in order to receive an diagnosis and a prescription for medication. It is crucial to realize that the only professionals who can determine ADHD are psychiatrists who have completed specialized training and gained experience in working with ADHD in adults. Mental health professionals and counselors are able to discuss ADHD symptoms but they are unable to give an official diagnosis.
The main method for diagnosing ADHD is through an interview that is structured and accompanied by questionnaires. These are usually built on research that compares the behaviours of those with ADHD with those of people without it. During the assessment, it is essential that the person be honest and open, and not hide any issues or conceal information. The doctor will inquire with the patient about the severity and frequency of symptoms in different situations and over time. They will also discuss family history as well as any other mental health problems or alcohol and drug use.
A psychiatrist will complete an assessment of the symptoms and their impact on the person's daily functioning. This is generally more in-depth than a typical psychiatric assessment Therefore, it is essential to book in advance and allow plenty of time for the appointment. It is recommended to bring a close friend or family member to assist the person and to provide feedback. Occasionally, additional psychological, neuropsychological or testing for learning disabilities is used to complement the clinical evaluation and determine if ADHD is present or whether other factors are contributing to the symptoms.
The doctor will inform the patient what to do following the assessment. They will usually talk about whether the medication is appropriate and then decide on a comprehensive treatment plan. Some clinics offer a fast stabilisation and titration program for patients who wish to start taking medications right away. This service is usually only available for a select group of clients who meet certain requirements, such as being over 18 and not suffering from a medical condition that would prevent them from starting medication immediately (e.g. hyperthyroidism or symptomatic cardiovascular disease).
How do I schedule an appointment for a Private Assessment?
If you think you may have ADHD and are concerned about the effects it may have on your relationships, work or general well-being it is possible to seek an assessment privately. You can also ask your GP for an appointment with an expert. The NHS Right to Choose scheme allows the doctors to refer you to a specialist. This means that you can select the hospital or wellness centre you prefer.
If you are recommended to the clinic, you will be offered an appointment to complete the clinical evaluation typically within two weeks. The assessment can be conducted face-to-face online, or by an expert in the field. It is important that you attend this appointment as without it, a diagnosis will not be established. You may also bring your loved ones along to gather collateral information. This is not necessary.
Your physician will review your medical history and discuss your symptoms in depth, how they affect you at present and how long they've been present. You can expect to be asked questions about your social and personal life, how you deal with the symptoms, and if they affect your work and relationships. It is very normal to be nervous about the first consultation, however our psychiatrists have years of experience in making you feel secure and at ease.
The assessment will also include tests for diagnostics in addition to the structured interview. These will typically include the QbCheck or QbTest. Both are CE marked, FDA/TGA approved and use a shortened form of the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD Adults Version 5(DIVA5) to diagnose adults with ADHD. The results of the test are combined with clinical judgment to make an accurate diagnosis.
It is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis, because if it is not treated the condition can lead to serious issues with relationships and work. It can also impact your wellbeing. It is important to remember that medical professionals may have preconceived notions about the people they believe might have ADHD This can affect their ability provide a proper diagnosis.
What happens during a Private Assessment
Although every doctor has their own process for evaluating patients, there are certain procedures that all doctors consider essential for a complete ADHD assessment. private adhd assessment uk include a thorough diagnostic interview, information collected from independent sources (such as spouses and other members of the family), standardized behavior rating scales for ADHD and various other types of psychometric testing deemed appropriate by the clinician.
The diagnostic interview is usually the initial step in the process. The person being evaluated will be asked several questions designed to prompt them to think about the way they've been behaving and to discuss how those behaviours influence their lives. It could take up to an hour or longer. It is important that the patient or family members answer honestly and completely. Some patients might be embarrassed or reluctant to discuss how they're behaving, and this could negatively impact the quality of the assessment.
During the interview, the examiner will inquire about the impact of ADHD on the person's relationships and life. They will also ask about the medical history of the person and the length of time they have been experiencing symptoms of ADHD. This is an important part of the examination because it helps determine whether an assessment of ADHD is appropriate.
The examiner will then complete the scales of behavioral ratings that are standardized for ADHD. These questionnaires are based on research that compares the behaviors of those with ADHD to those of people who do not have ADHD and are an important source of information objective. The person being rated and their significant other will complete these rating scales in conjunction.
Broad-spectrum scales for screening for anxiety or depression are often included in an ADHD assessment as are tests of specific capabilities (such as the development of language, vocabulary recall, memory recall and motor skills). Sometimes, the clinician may decide that another type of psychometric test or psychological assessment is required and may order it.
At Priory we are adept at examining differential diagnosis (what other conditions have symptom overlap with ADHD). For instance, a person who is diagnosed with anxiety might be recommended psychotherapy as for medication to optimize the treatment plan.
What happens after the Private Assessment?
If you or someone you know suffers from ADHD having a diagnosis can help to manage issues that are negatively impacting your life. This is particularly relevant for those who struggle at work or in relationships and feel they are unable to manage their time at home, get lost of things easily, or struggle to plan and organize their day-to-day activities. The first step is to locate a doctor who is able to perform an ADHD evaluation for adults. Your general practitioner may be able to provide an appointment or ask a family or friend member for a referral. You can also ask a medical school or mental health clinic for suggestions. Another option is to join an ADHD support group and chat with the group members.
A thorough ADHD assessment can be conducted face-to-face or online. The doctor will conduct an interview, go over your clinical history, and suggest psychometric tests to help you understand your cognitive abilities. These tests include standardized behavioural ratings for ADHD psychometrics, broad spectrum psychometrics and specific ability tests.
The doctor will utilize all the information gathered from various sources to form an assessment of ADHD and other psychiatric or learning disorders that were discovered during the assessment. The clinician can discuss treatment options with you and assist you to create a holistic plan, which may include medication, therapy or other psychosocial interventions.
Once a final diagnoses is confirmed, the physician will provide you and your GP a detailed report. If you are interested in receiving prescription medications through the NHS, the clinician will give your GP with all necessary documentation. You'll need to attend follow-up appointments with your GP in order for them to monitor your progress and ensure that the medication is working.
After your doctor has provided you a written summary of the treatment and agreed on a holistic treatment plan, you can decide if you want to continue with private or NHS care. You'll need a minimum three months of stabilisation of your medication, and follow-up appointments prior to when you are able to return to the NHS.