How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
For those of you looking to get a diagnosis of ADHD, the process can seem daunting. But it doesn't have to be.
The typical procedure begins with a visit to your GP and you will have an open and frank discussion about your health issues and how they've affected you since your early years.
1. Speak to your doctor
Your GP should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also discuss whether they believe you are a candidate for an ADHD diagnosis and what next steps are.
They may decide to refer you to a specialist clinician for a diagnostic assessment. You may be required to fill out a form that will help the specialist determine whether you meet the ADHD criteria. These forms can usually be completed online and before your appointment. Before you go to the appointment, it's a good idea for you to be familiar with the various symptoms (traits) of ADHD and record some examples of how they affect you.
The expert will review the forms you've completed and then set up a time to meet with you. It will likely be in person, but it may be via phone or through Skype in case you prefer. They will determine if you are able to meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD and will also look into any other mental health issues that might be causing issues. They will ask if you have considered taking medication to manage symptoms and will explain the advantages and disadvantages of this option.
If you decide to go the route of medication, your doctor will ask you if agree to give your prescription to your GP under a shared-care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and book follow up appointments with you.
If you don't have access to the NHS, your GP is not required to refer you for an ADHD assessment. This is due to the fact that GPs are not specialists, and can only refer you to an expert for a diagnosis of ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing you significant difficulties in your daily life.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it is possible to refer yourself for a private ADHD assessment. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide on their website here. It is best to discuss this issue with your GP so they can understand why you need an individual referral. If your GP refuses to refer you to a specialist for reasons of any kind or refuses to make a referral, it might be time to search for another GP.
2. Request your GP for an appointment
If you are concerned that you or your child may have ADHD and/or ADD, it is essential to talk to your GP regarding the symptoms. A diagnosis can ease your mind and allow you to learn more about your condition. The process may seem daunting however, those who wish to live as full as they can will find it worth the effort.
When speaking to your GP make sure you explain why you believe you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. Your GP will take this very seriously and may ask you to complete a diagnostic screening tool. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, such as difficulties with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Based on the location you are in You may have to wait a while before you are able to get an ADHD evaluation through the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who offer faster appointments. These professionals are often suggested in the NICE guidelines, and their track record is established. They are also able to provide a more thorough assessment and treatment for medication if required.
You are entitled to choose your preferred provider in England if your GP is in agreement that you should be referred for an ADHD assessment. This is the "Right to Choose" pathway. You can find out more about this on the NHS website. Psychiatry UK is the principal provider of RTC in the UK has a manual 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 involve a thorough clinical interview with questions about your medical background, family history and current health issues. The specialist will also use symptoms checklists and interviews with your parents or spouse and the input of others who know you well to evaluate your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
If you decide to take medication for ADHD typically, you'll be discharged back to your GP after a 30-minute appointment with the psychiatrist. Your GP will renew the prescriptions, and you can go to an ADHD specialist for additional treatment like CBT or a trial of ADHD medications.
3. Find a Psychiatrist and Psychologist
The GP will issue an appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct your ADHD assessment. The specialist will examine your symptoms and decide the best way to manage the symptoms. They may suggest medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or both. Psychologists are trained to be advanced in psychology and are specialists in the field of mental health. They can prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, and Louisiana, as well as in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and throughout the US Armed Forces. They will consult with your child's primary physician or pediatrician before prescribing any ADHD medication.
Psychologists and psychiatrists work together to help you manage your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan. They will consider the ways in which your ADHD symptoms impact your quality of life, and how they affect your work, relationships, and your overall wellbeing. They will also consider any other health issues you may have and how they might be contributing to your symptoms.
When you make an appointment to see a psychiatrist, they will begin the examination by asking about your lifestyle and medical history. You will be asked to complete questionnaires to evaluate your symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life. They may also seek feedback from those who know you well like family members or close friends.
Some people find it difficult to obtain a referral for an ADHD assessment from their GP. This could be due to the stigma attached to ADHD or the fact that a GP may think that your problems stem from something else, like anxiety or depression. Luckily, this does not necessarily have to be the situation.
Online clinics offer ADHD assessments and prescription medications. Some of these are based in the UK while others are located in other countries. Some of them accept health care insurance and others offer special packages to people who require financial assistance. Find a practitioner that can help you manage your symptoms and live a happy and fulfilled life.
4. Make an appointment
If you are referred by your GP for an ADHD evaluation, you could be offered the choice to consult a private doctor or the NHS 'Right to Choose' route. This is a brand new system introduced in 2018, which allows you to choose your preferred mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process quicker than having to wait for an NHS appointment, since there is no need for your GP to refer you to a different provider.
Once you've selected the provider for your private assessment, they will book an appointment with you. You can choose to have the appointment in person or over the telephone, based on your preference. During the assessment your specialist will inquire about various aspects of your life, such as your symptoms. They will also ask for input from someone close to you, like a partner, family member or friend. Then, they can make a report that can be sent to your GP.
During the examination, your doctor might discuss whether you would benefit from medication. Due to the global shortage of ADHD medication, it can take some time before you receive a prescription, and this is something you must be aware of.
You can appeal your doctor's decision in the event that he or she refuses to pay for your ADHD assessment. If book adhd assessment choose to appeal it must be done in writing. You can then highlight any concerns that you might have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on you. In certain cases, CCG will review their decision and approve funding. If they don't then you can contact your MP and ask them to to get the funding approved. Here's a sample letter you can give to your MP.