ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerul drugs following unreliable video assessments in private clinics, an BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation occurred following tips received. Numerous patients and whistleblowers were interviewed.
Many people are forced to pay for private assessments because of the NHS waiting list. But does it work?
Why do I need a private diagnosis?
If you or someone you love has ADHD You should seek out a professional who will accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe best treatment. While a lot of people choose to go with the NHS but a private diagnosis can often be more efficient and can save you time and money in the end.
There are concerns regarding the NHS's ability to meet current demands for ADHD assessments. As a result, patients are often waiting weeks or even months for an appointment, and this can be a source of stress for those who suffer from the condition. Many think that the NHS assessment services aren't as effective as they could be.
It's not a surprise, then that more people choose to have a private assessment. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care provided by some private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics were rushing through tests over the phone and told patients they had ADHD when, in reality they didn't.
A private assessment will typically begin with a series of screening questionnaires that you will be asked to complete and return to your doctor. The screenings are standardised and designed to determine whether you have symptoms of ADHD. The results can be used to aid the doctor in deciding whether or not to attend an entire diagnostic appointment.
The doctor will then conduct an in-depth assessment of your family and medical history, and how the symptoms of ADHD are impacting your life. They will also conduct a physical examination and cognitive test. You will be diagnosed with ADHD in light of your circumstances and then given a treatment plan.
After you are diagnosed with ADHD your doctor will forward documentation to your GP to request a shared-care agreement. This will enable you to continue to receive NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription charge) while seeing your private clinician for ongoing appointments and CBT therapy, if required.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
In the case of ADHD an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment can make all the difference. The NHS can be slow and frustrating when it comes to diagnosing ADHD. Some adults cannot wait that long and look for private doctors to evaluate their condition. This could save you time and stress, but it is important to keep in mind that it is not a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.
A specialist who has experience diagnosing ADHD can provide an extensive evaluation than a psychiatrist working for the NHS. This may include a medical examination as well as tests such as hearing and vision. This will include check-lists and questionnaires. The person conducting the test will also ask about your family history and social and medical history and will also inquire about your symptoms. They may also use the standard ADHD scales of rating and may also ask your caregivers or teachers to give you a score.
When assessing adults with ADHD the healthcare professional will look at five or more symptoms that have been present for at least six months and are serious enough to interfere in the home or in the workplace. They will also look at whether the symptoms are related to mental health issues in other ways. Depression and anxiety, for example, can cause ADHD-like signs. They will also look at your work and social life background to rule out issues like financial hardship, an abuse history, and alcohol or drug abuse.
During the NHS assessment, a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional will inform you if they think that you don't meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD. You can ask for another assessment if they disagree with their conclusion.
Anyone who is diagnosed of ADHD privately can choose to discuss it with their GP. The GP can then refer the person back to share management via the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed as ADHD can get medication in this way. However, doctors have been often hesitant to prescribe ADHD medication because they do not specialise in the condition and also because it's expensive.
What happens if I don't agree with my diagnosis for adhd in adults (
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Remember that your clinician must be tolerant and respectful to your concerns and feelings. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD can cause serious problems for families and individuals. If your doctor isn't happy with the diagnosis, they might be able suggest alternative treatment options or diagnoses that might be more suitable for you.
If your clinician determines that you do not meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they give the reasons. You may have not provided enough information about your struggles or they might believe that another condition better explains your symptoms (traits). If you're unhappy with the decision you may seek a second opinion from a different doctor or use the NHS complaints procedure.
It's important to consider that your doctor might find the process of assessing frustrating, whether you choose private care or NHS care. This isn't because of the individuals affected, but rather because NHS service delivery is stretched to the limits.
GPs are also struggling to navigate the complicated diagnosis process for ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence in general). They must ensure that they offer a high-quality service that is safe and fair, and meet the requirements of shared care prescribing that are set by the GMC.
The Panorama expose has revealed that private clinics are using short cut diagnostic methods and this could put patients at risk. This is a national issue, and a very real reason to consider alternative options.
It is important to remember that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it more difficult for some people to receive a diagnosis. This is especially true if they are of a minority ethnic background or were born female or have other social or health circumstances that can affect how medical professionals evaluate the symptoms they exhibit.
We can assist you if find your life negatively affected by untreated ADHD symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced in identifying
adhd private diagnosis and can offer support and treatment to address your difficulties. You can make an appointment on our website or give us a an email to find out what we can do to assist.
What happens if you don't want me to take my medication?
If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but do not want to take medication, it is possible to receive a diagnosis without the need for medication. The NHS provides an adult ADHD assessment service and you can request a referral from your GP to be assessed at one of the centers for specialists in England, or through the 'Right to choose route which is a lot more efficient.
Your appointment will comprise an online questionnaire, a clinical interview, and the completion of some validated tests. This will help your physician to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they have on your daily activities. The clinician will consider your experiences in the past and your family history. It is crucial to provide truthful and accurate answers.
If the doctor determines that you meet all of the diagnostic criteria for ADHD the doctor will be capable of providing you with an assessment. You will be asked if you would like to discuss the possibility of taking a medication.