Question: How Much Do You Know About Diagnosis ADHD?
ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerul drugs after unreliable video call assessments in private clinics as a BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation took place following tips received. Dozens of patients and whistleblowers were interviewed.
Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean that many people are forced to pay for a private assessment. But is it effective?
Why do I need a private diagnosis?
If you or someone you love has ADHD You should consult a specialist who can accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe the most appropriate treatment. Many people choose to use the NHS but a private diagnosis is usually more accurate and can save both time and money.
There are concerns that the NHS is struggling to cope with the demands of current services for ADHD assessments. As a result, patients are often waiting for weeks or even months to get an appointment, which could cause a lot of distress for those affected. Many people feel that the NHS assessment services aren't as effective as they could be.
It's not surprising, then, that more adults choose to undergo a private examination. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care provided by some private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics were speeding through assessments over the phone, and were telling patients they had ADHD when, in reality, they did not.
A private assessment usually begins with a series of screening questions that you will be asked to complete and then submit to your doctor. The screenings are designed and standardised to determine if you show symptoms of ADHD. The results will aid the doctor in deciding whether or not you should attend an entire diagnostic appointment.
The doctor will then review your medical history and family history, as in addition to the effects of ADHD symptoms on your life. The doctor will also conduct physical examinations and cognitive tests. You will be diagnosed with ADHD based on your situation and then given a treatment plan.
Once you have been diagnosed with ADHD and the doctor will write to your GP with a request for a 'shared care agreement'. This will allow you to continue to receive NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription fee) while seeing your private doctor for regular appointments and CBT therapy if required.
What happens if I don't have an answer to my question?
A clear diagnosis and the proper treatment can make a huge difference in the case of ADHD. However the NHS method of diagnosing ADHD can be lengthy and frustrating. Some adults are unable to wait this long and turn to private professionals for an assessment. This could save you time and frustration, however it is important to keep in mind that it does not guarantee an accurate diagnosis.
A professional who has experience diagnosing ADHD can offer a more thorough diagnosis than an NHS psychiatrist. This can include a physical examination as well as tests such as hearing and vision. It will also involve questionnaires and checklists. The person who is conducting the test will also ask you about your family medical and social history as well as your symptoms. They may also use standard ADHD scales of rating, and may ask your teachers or caregivers to rate you.
When assessing adult ADHD The healthcare professional will look for five or more signs over six months that are serious enough to disrupt your work or family life. They will also check whether these symptoms are a result of other mental disorders. For instance, depression and anxiety can cause ADHD-like symptoms. They will also review your social and work background to rule out issues such as financial hardship, an abuse history, and drug or alcohol misuse.
During your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional if you do not meet the criteria for ADHD. They will also explain why they think you are not and you can request another assessment if you are not satisfied with their conclusion.
Individuals who have an official diagnosis of ADHD can decide to share this with their GP, and the GP can send them back for shared management through the NHS. This is the way that some adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD are able to access medication. However, GPs have been known to be reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they are not experts in the condition and also because it is expensive.
What if I disagree with my diagnosis?
It is important to remember that your doctor should be empathetic and respectful of your feelings and concerns. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD can cause serious problems for families and individuals. If your doctor isn't happy with the diagnosis, they may be able to suggest alternative treatments or diagnoses that may be more suitable for you.
If your physician decides that you do not meet the criteria to be considered a case of ADHD They will then explain why. It could be that you haven't provided enough information about your issues or they might believe that another condition is more likely to explain your symptoms (traits). If you're unhappy with the diagnosis you can seek a second opinion from another clinician or use the NHS complaints procedure.
It's important to consider that your doctor may find the process of assessment frustrating, whether you choose private or NHS care. This isn't because of the individuals involved, but rather due to the fact that NHS service provision is stretched to its limits.
GPs also have to navigate the complicated diagnosis process for ADHD as well as autism (and neurodivergence in general). They must ensure they offer a high-quality service that is safe and fair, as well as meet the prescriptions for shared care as outlined by the GMC.
The Panorama exposé has revealed that private clinics use quick diagnostic techniques, which can put people in danger. This is a national scandal, and a very real reason to consider alternatives.
It is also important to note that the stigma associated with being diagnosed as ADHD can make it difficult for certain people receive the diagnosis. This is especially true when they are of minority ethnicity, assigned female at birth or have other social and health situations that could affect the way medical professionals interpret the symptoms they present.
If you are struggling with unmanaged ADHD symptoms and feel your life is negatively affected, we are here to assist. Our specialists are skilled in diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment for your issues. You can make an appointment online or give us a phone to discuss what we can do to help.
What happens If you don't wish me to take my medication?
If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but don't want to use medication, it is possible to be diagnosed without the need for medication. You can receive an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You could ask your GP to refer you to one of the specialist centers in England or follow the "Right to Choose" method, which is quicker.
Your appointment will comprise a validated assessment as well as a medical interview and an online questionnaire. This will help your physician to understand how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they affect your daily routine. The clinician will consider your past experiences and family history. It is essential that you give truthful and accurate information.
If the physician determines that you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD the doctor will be able to provide you with an diagnosis. You will be asked if you are interested in discussing the possibility of taking a medication. It is important to think about the implications of taking any medication before making the decision. adhd in adults diagnosis adhddiagnosis is because the effects of medications are long-lasting and could have serious side-effects if not taken properly.
The psychiatrist will provide you with an appointment and a treatment plan should you choose to take a medication. Based on the severity of your symptoms, and the amount of time you've been experiencing them, it might be suggested that you take ADHD medication for an extended period of time. It is also important to keep in mind that there are other non-pharmacological ways to manage ADHD symptoms. These include exercise, diet, and cognitive behavior therapy.
The BBC Panorama "expose" of private clinics that treat ADHD has generated controversy, particularly because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed as a result of insufficient assessment of the clinical condition. We're not sure that this isn't the case, because humans are awfully inexact creatures and psychiatry is not a science at all. However, if you're struggling with ADHD symptoms and are disappointed by the NHS wait times, it can make sense to get a private assessment.