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ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
BBC Panorama found that patients are diagnosed with ADHD at private clinics and prescribed powerful drugs after unreliable video calls. The undercover investigation was carried out following tip-offs, and dozens of patients and whistleblowers were spoken to.
Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean that a lot of people have no choice but to pay for a private examination. But is it effective?
Why do I need a private diagnosis?
If you or someone you know has ADHD, you should seek out a professional who can accurately assess the condition and prescribe most appropriate treatment. While many people may choose to go with the NHS but a private diagnosis can often be more effective and save you both time and money in the long run.
There are concerns that the NHS is unable to cope with the current demand for its services for ADHD assessments. Patients have to wait for weeks or months to get an appointment. This can be very stressful for those affected. Many people also believe that the NHS assessment services aren't as good as they could be.
It's not surprising, then, that more adults choose to get a private evaluation. However, the BBC Panorama investigation has raised serious concerns about the quality of care offered by certain private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics were rushing through tests over the phone and telling patients that they were suffering from ADHD when, in reality, they did not.
A private assessment usually starts with a series of questionnaires for screening, which you will be asked to fill out and submit to the clinician. The screenings are designed and standardised to determine if you exhibit symptoms of ADHD. These results aid the clinician decide if it is appropriate to schedule a diagnostic appointment.
The doctor will then conduct a thorough review of your medical and family history, and how the symptoms of ADHD can affect your life. The doctor will also conduct an examination of your body and cognitive tests. You will be diagnosed with ADHD according to your specific situation and given a treatment program.
After you've been diagnosed with ADHD The doctor will send a letter to your GP with a form for a'shared-care agreement'. This allows you to continue to receive NHS medication while paying only the NHS prescription fee. You can also see your personal doctor to attend appointments and receive CBT therapy in the event that it is needed.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
If you suffer from ADHD an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can make a huge difference. However, the NHS method of diagnosing ADHD is lengthy and difficult. Many adults can't wait that long and look for private doctors to determine their situation. This could save you time and frustration, but it is important to keep in mind that it is not a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.
A professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD can give a more thorough evaluation than an NHS psychiatrist. This may include a medical examination and tests such as hearing and vision. It will also involve checklists and questionnaires. The person conducting the evaluation will also inquire about your family, medical and social histories as well as your symptoms. They may also use the standard ADHD rating scales and may also ask your teachers or caregivers to rate you.
When assessing adult ADHD the healthcare professional will look for five or more signs 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 determine if these symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. For example, depression and anxiety can trigger ADHD-like symptoms. 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 your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional if you don't meet the criteria for ADHD. They will explain their reasoning and you may request a second assessment if you disagree with their decision.
People who receive a diagnosis of ADHD privately can decide to discuss it with their GP. The GP can then refer the patient back to share management via the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD can get medication this way. However, GPs are known to be reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication because they do not specialise in the condition and because it is expensive.
What happens If I don't like my diagnosis?
Remember that your clinician must be tolerant and respectful to your feelings and concerns. They will know that unmanaged ADHD can create serious issues for families and individuals. If your doctor isn't satisfied with the diagnosis, they might suggest alternative diagnoses and treatments that are more suitable for you.
If your clinician decides that you don't meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain the reasons why. It could be that you haven't given enough details about your struggles, or they may believe that another condition better explains your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with the diagnosis, you can seek another opinion from another clinician or follow the NHS complaints process.
It's important to consider that your physician might find the process of assessing frustrating, whether you choose private or NHS care. The NHS is stretched too thin and this is not the fault of the people affected.
GPs are also struggling to navigate the complicated diagnosis process for ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence more generally). They must ensure that they provide a solid, fair and safe service and that they meet the GMC's requirements for shared care prescribing.
Panorama's exposé has revealed that private clinics use techniques for diagnosing problems that are not as thorough, and could put patients at risk. This is a tragedy for the entire country and a valid reason to look at other options.
It is also worth noting that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it harder for certain people to receive the diagnosis. This is especially true if the person is of a different ethnicity or was a female at birth or has other health and social circumstances which can affect how medical professionals view their symptoms.
We can help if you feel your life is negatively affected by untreated ADHD symptoms. Our doctors are experts in diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment for your difficulties. Contact us today or request an appointment online to find out how to get an adult diagnosis adhd adhd diagnosis (ondashboard.win) we can help.
What is the next step if I don't wish to take a medication?
If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but don't want to use medication, it is possible to be diagnosed without taking medication. You can receive an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You could ask your GP to send you to one of the centers for specialists in England or use the 'Right to Choose" pathway which is faster.
Your appointment will comprise an online questionnaire, a clinical interview, and some validated assessments. This will enable your doctor to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they affect your daily routine. The doctor will also consider your past experiences and family history. It is crucial to provide truthful and accurate answers.
If the doctor decides that you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD If they determine that you meet the diagnostic criteria of adhd self diagnosis, they will provide you with a diagnosis. You will be asked if would like to discuss the possibility of using medication. Before deciding it is essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of taking a medication. This is because the effects of medications can be long-term and may be harmful if used in a safe manner.
The psychiatrist will provide you with a prescription and a plan should you choose to take a medication. You could be given ADHD medication for a prolonged duration, based on the severity of the symptoms and how do you get an adhd diagnosis long you've experienced them. It is essential to be aware of other non-pharmacological ways to manage ADHD symptoms. These include exercise, diet and cognitive behavior therapy.
The BBC Panorama "expose" of private clinics that diagnose ADHD has generated controversy, in particular because it suggests people are being misdiagnosed as the result inadequate evaluations of clinical conditions. We hesitate to say this isn't true because humans aren't exact creatures, and psychiatry barely is a science. If you're experiencing ADHD symptoms but are frustrated by the NHS waiting times, it may be beneficial to pay for an assessment.