ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerful drugs following unreliable video assessments in private clinics according to a BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation occurred following tips received. Dozens of patients and whistleblowers contacted.
Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean that many people are forced to pay for a private examination. But does it work?
Why do I need a private diagnosis?
If you or someone you know has ADHD You should find a doctor who will accurately diagnose the condition and prescribe most appropriate treatment. Many people prefer to utilize the NHS however an individual diagnosis is often more accurate and can save time and money.
There are concerns that the NHS is struggling to cope with current demands on its services for ADHD assessments. Patients have to wait for weeks or months for an appointment. This can be very distressing for those who are affected. Many people also believe that the NHS assessment services aren't as effective as they could be.
It's not surprising, therefore that more adults opt to get a private evaluation. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care provided by some private clinics. The undercover programme revealed that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone and told patients they were ADHD when they weren't.
A private assessment will typically begin with a series of screening questionnaires you will be asked to complete and return to the doctor. The screenings are standardised and designed to determine if you exhibit symptoms of ADHD. These results aid the clinician decide if it is appropriate to schedule a diagnostic appointment.
The clinician will then evaluate your medical history and family history as well as the effects of ADHD symptoms on your life. The clinician will also conduct physical examinations and cognitive test. Based on your specific circumstances you will then be diagnosed with ADHD and given a detailed treatment plan.
If you are diagnosed with ADHD your doctor will submit documents to your GP for a shared care agreement. This will enable you to continue to receive NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription charge) while you see your private doctor for regular appointments and CBT therapy when required.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
A clear diagnosis and the right treatment can make a big difference in the case of ADHD. The NHS can be slow and frustrating when it comes to diagnosing ADHD. Some adults are unable to wait that long and look for private doctors to assess their condition. This can help save time and frustration, but it's important to recognize that this isn't a guarantee of a precise diagnosis.
A professional who has experience diagnosing ADHD can offer a more thorough diagnosis than an NHS psychiatrist. This could include a physical examination as well as tests, such as hearing and vision. The assessment may also include checklists and questionnaires. The person who is conducting the test will also ask you about your family, medical and social histories as well as your symptoms. They may also utilize standardized ADHD ratings scales, and may want to ask your teachers or caregivers for ratings, too.
When evaluating adults with ADHD, the healthcare professional will look for five or more signs over six months that are severe enough to cause disruption in your work or family life. They will also determine whether the symptoms are related to any other mental health conditions. For example, depression and anxiety can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. They will also review your professional and social background to rule out potential issues like financial difficulties, abuse histories, and drinking and drug addiction.
During the NHS assessment, a psychiatrist or another healthcare professional will inform you if they believe that you do not meet the criteria needed to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD. They will also explain why they think you are not and you may request a second assessment if you are not satisfied with their conclusion.
If you have an official diagnosis of ADHD can choose to share this information with their GP, and the GP can then refer them to shared management through the NHS. This is how many adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD get access to medication. However, GPs have been often hesitant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they do not specialise in the condition and because it's expensive.
What happens If I don't like my diagnosis?
Remember that your clinician must be respectful and sympathetic to your feelings and concerns. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD symptoms can cause major difficulties for people and families. If your doctor isn't happy with the diagnosis, they might be able to suggest alternative diagnoses or treatments that could be more appropriate for you.
If your clinician decides that you don't meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis, they will give the reasons. You may have not provided enough details about your issues or they may think that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with the diagnosis you may seek a second opinion from a different clinician or go through the NHS complaints process.
It's important to consider that your physician might find the process of assessing challenging, whether you opt for private or NHS care. The NHS is stretched to its limits and this isn't the fault of the people affected.
GPs are trying to navigate the complicated process of diagnosing ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence as a whole). They must make sure they provide a solid safe, fair and secure service and that they meet the requirements of the GMC for shared care prescribing.
The Panorama expose has revealed that some private clinics are using shortcut diagnostic techniques and this could put patients at risk. This is a national issue and a compelling reason to consider alternatives.
It is also important to remember that the stigma associated with being diagnosed with ADHD can make it difficult for some people to receive a diagnosis. This is especially true when the person is a member of a minority group or was a female when they were born. birth, or has other health or social issues that can influence how medical professionals view their symptoms.
adhd diagnosis uk adults can help if you find your life negatively affected by untreated ADHD symptoms. Our specialists are skilled in diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment to help you overcome your concerns. Contact us today or request an appointment online to find out how we can assist you.
What is the consequence if I don't want to take medication?
If you are concerned about ADHD symptoms but don't want to take medication, it is possible to receive a diagnosis without the need for medication. You can get an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You can ask your GP to refer you to one of the centers that specialize in England or go through the "Right to Choose" route, which is more efficient.
Your appointment will consist of an authenticated assessment and a consultation with a clinician and an online questionnaire. This will allow your clinician to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they affect your daily routine. The clinician will take into account your personal experiences as well as your family history. It is essential to provide accurate and truthful 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 would like to discuss the possibility of taking a medication. Before making a decision it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using the medication. The effects of medications are long-term, and can be dangerous in the event of a misjudgment.
The psychiatrist will provide you with a prescription and a plan if you decide to take a medication. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, and the duration of time you've been experiencing them, it might be suggested that you take ADHD medication for a long period of time. However, it's important to remember that there are other options to manage ADHD symptoms, including diet, exercise and cognitive behaviour therapy.
The BBC Panorama "expose" of private clinics that treat ADHD has caused controversy, in particular because it suggests people are being misdiagnosed as the result of inadequate evaluations of clinical conditions. We are reticent to say that this isn't the case since humans are incredibly inexact, and psychiatry barely a science. If you're suffering from ADHD symptoms but are frustrated by the NHS waiting times, it might be a good idea to pay for an assessment.