How to Get an ADHD Assessment in the UK
It can be a challenge to obtain an ADHD assessment through the NHS. The waiting lists can be lengthy, and people may be diagnosed with other disorders that can better explain their issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Your GP should be attentive to your concerns and consider the reasons you think you might be suffering from ADHD. They should then refer you to an NHS assessment.
1. Consult your GP
In England and Wales there is access to an ADHD assessment through the NHS. If medication is suggested for you, you could be able to access it. You will need explain to your GP how you believe you might have ADHD and the impact it has on your life. Your GP will take this very seriously and will ask you to complete an assessment questionnaire or screening tool before referring you a specialist for an evaluation. For adults, it's particularly important to make a list of the specific ADHD characteristics and symptoms you experience in your day-to-day life, and be ready to give examples when you are asked.
Your psychiatrist will work with you to assess whether or not you have ADHD, and they will employ a variety of methods and tools, including symptom checklists, behavior rating scales, and interviews with you, your family members and other people who know you well. The psychiatrist will write a report using the information they have received. Then, they will discuss their recommendations with you, which could mean that you are diagnosed with ADHD and, if necessary, you should begin treatment with medication.
You may find that some doctors aren't willing to make an appointment for an assessment or will not prescribe ADHD medication on the NHS In this instance, it is worth finding a different GP who can be more accommodating. The charity Psychiatry-UK have some helpful tips on this issue on their website here.
In England it is your legal right to choose the place that you receive an ADHD assessment, as long as the service you receive is provided by the NHS, and the cost of the service is not more than the amount you would pay when you go directly to the NHS. If you are unable achieve progress with your local CCG, you can ask ICAS to help you submit an appeal to the national Appeal Panel. If you are located in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales, then the NHS has different rules and guidance. You can attempt to get access to services through Right to Choose. Psychiatry UK provides some advice regarding this.
2. Request a recommendation
Depending on where you live in the UK there are two different options you can choose to get an ADHD assessment. The first is to take advantage of the NHS by asking your GP to refer. This can be a long process, and sometimes you'll have to wait years to get an appointment. Alternately, you can opt for the 'Right of Choice option. This is a legal right which allows you to request a referral to an outside provider when you feel that the NHS waiting time for an ADHD assessment is too long.
If you choose to do this then your GP must agree to this, and also sign a'shared care agreement' with the provider that you have chosen. However, a majority of doctors do not like signing shared care agreements with patients that have been diagnosed privately, particularly because they aren't experts in the diagnosis of ADHD and the prescription of the medication.
In most cases you can then book an appointment with a private service you prefer. The ADHD specialist will carry out an interview and questionnaires with your child and you (if older than 11) before conducting an initial assessment. The specialist will let you know whether they believe your symptoms are caused by ADHD or not.
If it is determined that ADHD may be the reason for your problems In most cases, you will be sent home with additional questions for your workplace or school. They will then set up an appointment with you to discuss the findings and discuss your diagnosis. This appointment will give you the chance to discuss options for treatment. If it is determined that medication is needed then your GP will be informed and requested to prescribe the medication for you. The doctor will also discuss other suggestions regarding support at school or at work. The cost of any fees will be agreed upon before beginning. The majority of private providers provide free advice and support between appointments, either via emails or short phone calls.
3. Take a look at the assessment
It isn't easy to obtain an ADHD diagnosis in the UK and it is often mistakenly diagnosed with other mental health issues. The best method to obtain a diagnosis of ADHD is with an assessment by a specialist psychiatrist who specializes in the disorder.
You might have to wait for a while before you can receive an assessment from the NHS. Ask your GP for advice if you're concerned about the wait time. Right to Choose is a new NHS initiative that gives you the choice of the organization to which you are being referred. This allows you to skip the NHS waiting list, and can make the process much more efficient.
If you are undergoing an ADHD assessment, the psychiatrist will take a detailed description of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. The psychiatrist will then conduct a structured clinical evaluation with standardised questions. It can be helpful to learn about the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD prior to your appointment. write down examples, as it is common for people's minds to go blank when talking about their own experience.
The assessment will include physical examinations as well as interviews with family members, teachers, members, and colleagues. The psychiatrist will require accurate and complete data to make the most accurate diagnosis.
If the psychiatrist suspects that you or your child suffer from ADHD and they'll refer you for a full diagnostic assessment at a commissioned adult ADHD service. This will be a further appointment and may involve a variety of tests including psychological tests and brain imaging to help determine the extent of the disorder.
Some people choose to take a private ADHD assessment - this is becoming more popular as waiting lists for the NHS continue to increase. Depending on where you reside in the UK, there are a number of organisations that offer private assessments for ADHD. You can search for a list here or speak to your GP to determine which option is best for you. Private examinations can be faster than using the NHS. However the health insurance you have won't cover the cost.
4. Get a diagnosis
ADHD can cause problems in a wide range of areas. For instance it can impact your relationships or work. A clear diagnosis can help to resolve these issues. Unfortunately, due to a increase in people who require ADHD assessments, NHS services are struggling to keep up and waiting times can be lengthy. Some people choose to pay for their assessments privately. This lets them skip NHS waiting lists and start treatment sooner.
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD the next step is to create a treatment plan. This could be medication, or CBT therapy. It is crucial to think about this before you get your assessment, since it will help you decide what the most effective course of action for you is.
You may be eligible to receive an ADHD assessment through the NHS based on the location you reside in the UK. If this is the case, you should be taken to a specialist psychiatrist or paediatrician. They will assess your symptoms and issue a diagnosis based on the NICE 87 guidelines.
If you do not get an appointment from your GP You can refer yourself to an ADHD assessment with an individual mental health professional. how do i get my son assessed for adhd is typically faster than the NHS route, however it is essential to ensure that your GP will accept the 'Shared Care Agreement' with your private clinician.
When you're tested for ADHD Your doctor will ask you questions about your past and present behaviors. They will look for traits (symptoms) of ADHD, such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. They will also ask about how these traits affect your daily life. Before you go to an appointment, it's beneficial to be familiar with the criteria used to determine ADHD and to record examples of how these traits have affected your life.
A diagnosis of ADHD can change your life. It opens the door to a variety of treatment options and may provide an understanding of oneself and awareness that some previously undiagnosed adults find particularly beneficial. It can also lead to better relationships and a happier life.