How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to get a diagnosis of ADHD the process may seem overwhelming. It doesn't have to be.
The typical procedure begins with a visit at your GP where you will be able to have an open and honest discussion about the symptoms and how they've affected your life since the time you were a child.
1. Speak to your doctor
Your GP should take your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask you questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also determine if they believe that you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps are.
They might want to refer you to an expert clinician for a diagnostic assessment. They may require you to fill out the form to help the specialist determine whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. These forms can usually be completed online prior to your appointment. Before your appointment, it's a good idea for you to learn about the different symptoms (traits) of ADHD and note down some examples of how they impact you.
The specialist will review the completed forms and arrange a time for a consultation. It will likely be in person, however you can also schedule it over the phone or through Skype if that is your preference. They will determine if you fit the requirements for an ADHD diagnosis and also consider any other mental health issues that are causing issues. They will also ask if you are considering using medication to manage your symptoms. They will outline the advantages and disadvantages of this choice.
If you decide to go the medication route your doctor will ask you if you would like them to share your prescription with your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will ask your GP to prescribe medications and schedule follow-up appointments with you.
It is worth noting that if you're not in the NHS your GP is not obliged to refer you for an assessment of ADHD. GPs do not have the knowledge to determine ADHD. They can only refer patients to a specialist if the symptoms are causing significant difficulties.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it is possible to refer yourself for an in-person ADHD assessment. The Psychiatry UK website has a helpful guide on this on their website here. However, adhd diagnosis assessment is recommended to discuss this with your GP first to let them know the reason you want an appointment with a private doctor. If your GP is unable to refer you to a specialist for any reason or refuses to make a referral, it might be time to search for another GP.
2. Have your GP to refer you
It is important to discuss the symptoms with your GP if you suspect you or your child may have ADHD. A diagnosis can provide relief and allow you to learn more about your condition. The process can be daunting but those who want to live their lives as fully as they can will find it worth the effort.
When speaking to your GP, be sure to be clear about why you think that your child or you may be suffering from ADHD. Your GP should take this seriously and will probably request you to fill out an instrument for screening. It is important to describe your symptoms in detail, for example the case of difficulty managing your time or losing items frequently.
Depending on where you live depending on your location, you might have to wait a few days before you can receive an ADHD evaluation through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who offer faster appointments. They are frequently recommended by NICE guidelines and have established track records. They can also offer you a more thorough assessment and medication treatment if required.
You have the right to select your provider in England when your GP agrees that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is known as the "Right to Choose" pathway. You can learn more information about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK, the main provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline that includes templates that you can use to convince a GP to refer the patient.
Once you have an ADHD assessment, the specialist will follow the NICE guidelines to determine whether you or your child has one of the three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive or combined. This will include a clinical interview that will include questions about your medical history as well as your family history and any health issues you are currently facing. The doctor will also utilize symptom checklists as well as interviews with your parents or spouse as well as input from other people who know you well to evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your life.
After a 25-minute consultation with a psychiatrist, you'll be released to your GP in the event that you decide to use medication for ADHD. Your GP will renew your prescriptions, and you may visit an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or an evaluation of ADHD medications.
3. Find a Psychiatrist or Psychologist.
Your GP will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for an ADHD assessment. The specialist will evaluate your symptoms and determine how best to manage the symptoms. They might recommend medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or both. Psychiatrists are doctors who specialise in the field of mental health and hold advanced degrees in psychology. They can prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois and Iowa and also the Public Health Service and Indian Health Service. They will talk to your child's primary care physician or pediatrician first before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to assist you in managing your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan. They will consider the ways in which your ADHD symptoms impact your quality of life and how they impact your work, relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also take into consideration any other health problems you might have and how these might be contributing to the symptoms.
When you make an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they do is inquire about your medical history and your lifestyle. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires to evaluate your symptoms and their impact on your daily routine. They might also request that you talk about your experiences with people who know you well, like family members or close relatives.
Some people find it difficult to get a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This is due to the stigma associated with ADHD or because the GP might think that your difficulties are due to something else, such as depression or anxiety. It doesn't need to be the case.
There are a variety of online clinics offering ADHD tests and prescription medication. Some of these are based in the UK, and others are located in other countries. A majority of them accept health insurance, and a few offer packages specifically for those who require financial support. Do your research to find a doctor who can help you manage symptoms and live a happy and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
If you're referred by your doctor for an ADHD evaluation, you could be offered the option to seek out a private practitioner or the NHS 'Right to Choose' option. This is a brand-new system introduced in 2018 that allows you to choose your mental health provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This is a faster process than waiting for an NHS appointment. Your GP is not required to refer you to a different provider.
After you have selected the provider for your private assessment They will then schedule an appointment with you. This can be in person or by telephone, depending on your preference. During the examination, your doctor will inquire about various aspects of your life, such as your symptoms. They will also seek input from a person who is close to you, such as a family member, partner or friend. Then, they will prepare a report to be sent to your GP.
During the evaluation, your specialist may also discuss whether they believe you would benefit from medication. It can take a while before you get an appointment due to the global shortage in ADHD medication.
You can appeal to your doctor's decision if they refuse to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal it must be done in writing. You can then outline any concerns that you might have about the decision and provide evidence as to the impact it has had on you. In some instances, CCG will review their decision and approve the funding. If they don't, you can request your MP's assistance to in getting your funding approved. You can find the sample letter you can send your MP here.