How to Get a ADHD Diagnosis in the UK
The process of getting an assessment for ADHD can be daunting to those who are interested. It does not have to.
The typical route starts with an appointment with your GP where you'll have an open and frank discussion about your health issues and how they have affected you since your childhood.
1. Talk to your GP
Your GP should be aware of your concerns about ADHD seriously and ask you questions about how symptoms impact your life. They should also determine if they believe you have the right criteria to receive an ADHD diagnosis and what the next steps to take.
They may want to refer you to a specialist clinician for a diagnostic assessment. They might request you to fill out a form that will help the specialist assess whether you meet the criteria for ADHD. These forms can be completed online prior to your appointment. It is also a good idea to be familiar with the various characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, and then write down some the ways you experience these symptoms.
The specialist will review the forms you've completed and then set up a time to meet with you. It will likely take place in person, but you can also schedule it via phone or via Skype If that's the way you prefer. They will determine if you meet the criteria for the diagnosis of ADHD and will also look into any other mental health issues that could be causing problems. They will also ask whether you're considering taking medication to manage your symptoms, and will explain the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
If you decide to go the medication route, your doctor will ask you if agree to share your prescription with your GP under a shared care agreement. They will then ask your GP to prescribe the medication and schedule subsequent appointments with you.
It is important to note that if you're not registered with the NHS your GP is not obliged to refer you for an assessment of ADHD. This is because GPs are not specialists and they can only refer you to a specialist to determine if you suffer from ADHD when they have determined that your symptoms are causing significant difficulties in your daily life.
It is possible to self-refer for a private assessment of ADHD in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Psychiatry-UK have a great guide on this on their website here. It is a good thing to discuss this issue with your GP so they understand why you want an individual referral. If they're reluctant to refer you for any reason, or if they are unable to refer you at all It could be time to look for a different GP.
2. You can ask your GP for an appointment
If you suspect that you or your child could be suffering from ADHD or other related disorders, it is crucial to talk with your GP about the symptoms. Being diagnosed can provide some relief and allow you to learn more about the condition. The process may seem daunting but those who want to live life as fully as they can, will appreciate the effort.
When you speak to your GP make sure you provide the reasons why you think you or your child may have ADHD. Your GP should take this seriously and will likely ask you to fill out an instrument for screening. You should be prepared to provide examples of your symptoms, for example problems with managing time or frequent loss of items.
Depending the location you live in and where you live, you may need to wait a few days for an ADHD evaluation with the NHS. There are private ADHD treatment providers who can provide a faster appointment. They are frequently recommended by the NICE guidelines, and their track record is proven. They are also able to provide an in-depth assessment and treatment for medication if needed.
You are entitled to select your provider in England when your GP is in agreement that you should be referred to an ADHD assessment. This is known as the "Right to Choose" pathway. On the NHS website you can read more about this. Psychiatry UK the primary provider of RTC in the UK offers a guideline with templates 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 includes questions regarding your medical background as well as your family history and current health issues. The specialist will use symptoms checklists as well as interviews with your parents, spouse, and others who are familiar with your condition to evaluate your symptoms.
After a 25-minute discussion 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 can then visit your chosen ADHD specialist for further treatment, such as CBT therapy or an evaluation of ADHD medication.
3. Find a psychiatrist or a Psychologist.
The GP will provide you with an appointment with an Psychologist or a psychiatrist for your ADHD assessment. The specialist will review your symptoms and determine the best method to assist you in managing your symptoms. They might suggest medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or both. Psychiatrists are doctors who specialise in the field of mental health and have advanced qualifications in psychology. They can prescribe medication in Idaho, Illinois, Iowa and Louisiana and also in the Public Health Service, Indian Health Service and throughout the US Armed Forces. However they'll most likely consult with your primary physician or your child's pediatrician prior prescribing any medication for ADHD.
Psychiatrists and psychologists work closely together to help you manage 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 account any other health issues you have and how they might contribute to your symptoms.
When you schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist, the first thing they do is ask about your medical history and lifestyle. They will also ask you to fill out questionnaires that assess the extent of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. They might also ask for opinions from people who know you personally, such as family members or close friends.
read here are unable to get a referral from their GP to undergo an ADHD assessment. This could be due to the stigma associated with ADHD, or because a GP may believe that your problems are due to other factors, such as anxiety or depression. This doesn't always necessarily have to be the case.
There are many online clinics offering ADHD assessments and prescription medication. Some of these clinics are located in the UK as well as others in other countries. Some of them accept health insurance, while others offer special packages for people who require financial assistance. Find a doctor who can help you manage symptoms and lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
4. Make a booking
If you're referred to your doctor to undergo 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 gives you the right to choose your mental healthcare provider (such as your psychologist or psychiatrist). This makes the process quicker than waiting for an NHS appointment, as there will be no need for your GP to refer you over to a different service.
After you have selected the company for your private evaluation They will schedule an appointment with you. It could be in person or via the phone, based on your preference. During the exam, your specialist will ask you questions about various aspects of your life, including how your conditions affect your life. They may also ask anyone close to you for their input, such as your family, partner or a close friend. They can then prepare a report to be sent to your GP.
During the assessment your specialist might discuss whether you would benefit from medication. Due to the shortage of ADHD medications, it could take some time before you are given an order, so this is something that you should be aware of.
You can appeal to your doctor's decision in the event that he or they refuse to pay for your ADHD assessment. If you choose to appeal you must submit your appeal in writing. You can then highlight any concerns you have regarding the decision and provide evidence of the impact it had on you. In certain instances, the CCG could reconsider their decision and decide to approve your request. If they don't, you can ask your MP to assist you get funding approved. Here is an example of a letter you can give to your MP.