How to Get an ADHD Assessment on the NHS
During an NHS assessment medical professionals will ask you questions about your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. You'll be asked about your family history as well as your general health and symptoms.
You can also have an ADHD evaluation 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 has ADHD The first port of call is to talk to your GP. Your GP will take your concerns seriously and will ask you to describe your symptoms. They will then send you to an ADHD clinic for assessment.
This clinic will evaluate your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that includes medication (if necessary) and therapy. During this process your psychiatrist will identify any other medical or psychological conditions that can cause similar symptoms. They will ask for information and also gather information from others such as your teachers, family members, or friends. You will probably be asked to complete several forms or questionnaires, for instance the World Health Organization's ASRS v1 form. Preparing this form in advance will make it easier to 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 are not necessarily familiar with the process and may have difficulties in obtaining this. If this is the case, we recommend that you print and present to your GP our support letter from ADHD UK. You can access it by clicking here.
When you go to your assessment, you will be asked to give a detailed description of your symptoms and what they cause in various situations, like at work or at school. You will be asked to give examples of how your symptoms led you to experience problems and disruptions in your life. This includes childhood events for adults.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD, your psychiatrist may submit paperwork to your GP for a shared-care agreement. Your GP will then be accountable for prescribing any medication you require - and may suggest CBT therapy to help you manage your symptoms.
Once you have received your diagnosis, you will be able to use it to gain access to assistance services, such as reasonable adjustments or Disabled Student University'Allowance and, if needed you should submit a request to the DVLA for an exemption from driving restrictions. Your psychiatrist can also refer you to a psychologist who could provide additional assistance, based on your needs.
Right to Choose
If you're a citizen of the United Kingdom, you have the right to choose the person you visit as a healthcare provider. This is referred to as "Right to Choose." The NHS provides many services, including ADHD assessments and you can select a healthcare provider who suits your preferences and needs. It is important to remember that the quality of care and treatment provided by private healthcare providers can vary. sites to select healthcare providers with a proven track record in providing effective ADHD treatment and assessment.
Using your Right to Choose when you're undergoing an ADHD assessment will help you avoid long wait times. On the NHS website you can find out more about this. You can also download and print the letter from ADHD UK to give your GP which explains the Right to Choose process. This will aid in convincing your GP to accept your referral to a private ADHD assessor.
Once you've selected your doctor, they will book an appointment for you. It is likely to be in person, however it can also be conducted via video conference in accordance with your situation. During the ADHD assessment your psychiatrist will ask you questions about your symptoms, history and conduct additional tests if needed. This could include a memory test as well as a list of symptoms and questionnaires about how your symptoms impact your daily life.
After your evaluation your psychiatrist will draft a report that will detail any diagnosis and suggest next steps. If you are diagnosed with ADHD, your psychiatrist will discuss medications as appropriate. They may also speak with you about your obligations (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 any referral from your GP. This could be a more straightforward way to diagnose ADHD in the event that you have the money to pay for an assessment by a professional. It is important to inquire with your insurance company prior to scheduling an appointment.
Private Healthcare
If you believe that your symptoms of ADHD are having a major impact on your life and you don't want to wait for the NHS to assess your condition, it may be worth seeking out private healthcare for an assessment. The good news is that under the 'Right To Choose' pathway in England you are legally entitled to choose which provider be referred to by your GP - so long as they meet NHS standards and aren't more expensive than the NHS could be.
A private health care provider will conduct a thorough clinical interview, asking questions about your family and medical history as in addition to the severity of your symptoms. They will also require you to complete self-report questionnaires which assess the impact of your ADHD on your daily life and relationships. They will then utilize this information to rule out other mental or medical conditions that could be mimicking the symptoms of ADHD. If they determine that you have ADHD they will then write a personalised treatment plan for you that may include psychotherapy and medication.
When it comes to accessing medications through the NHS after receiving a private diagnosis, it's important to note that the majority of GPs will not sign a "shared care agreement' where they will manage your treatment from your private clinician (even for ADHD tablets). They don't believe they have the expertise or knowledge of ADHD medication to make informed decisions.
It is important to keep in mind that private assessments and treatments can vary greatly across the UK. For instance the East of England was found to be the most expensive area 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 area by using our ADHD online cost calculator here. If you decide that the expense of private healthcare isn't an option for you, there are some alternative routes to getting an assessment for adhd.
Alternative Routes
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, so it manifests itself in children as impulsive or hyperactive behavior. Adults can be affected by anxiety and restlessness, especially when they are under stress at work or home. This can result in an underlying issue being concealed for years before it is finally dealt with by a psychiatrist.
This is why it's a good idea to visit your GP If you suspect you might have ADHD as an adult. Your GP will begin by conducting an initial examination, gathering information on your symptoms and medical background. The GP will then refer you on to a specialist such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
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've suffered from and your family history of mental illness. It is important to discuss any comorbidities such as depression or anxiety, to the person who is conducting your assessment, since this can cause confusion when diagnosing ADHD.
If your doctor concludes that you have ADHD If they find that you do, they will recommend a treatment plan that will usually include medications. Stimulants, like Venlafaxine are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. However, they may also recommend non-stimulant medication, such as bupropion or atomoxetine. These medications are not addictive and can help you manage your ADHD symptoms.
The NHS offers a broad range of services for adults looking to receive an ADHD diagnosis, but waiting times can be lengthy. Alternatively, you can opt for private healthcare providers who have shorter waiting times. Private providers are often accepted by the NHS as part of their Right to Choose initiative.
Achieving an ADHD assessment and diagnosis at the age of an adult can have life-changing consequences. It can assist you in focusing on your career and relationships instead of worrying about uncontrolled ADHD symptoms. It can also provide confidence and access to help that you didn't even have access to. If you're an adult contemplating the possibility of an ADHD diagnosis, Onebright can support you throughout the process.