ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds

BBC Panorama found that patients are diagnosed with ADHD at private clinics and are prescribed powerful drugs after unreliable video calls. The undercover investigation was carried out following tip-offs, and dozens of patients and whistleblowers were listened to.

Many people are required to pay for private assessments due to the NHS waiting list. But does it actually work?

Why do I need an appointment with a private doctor?

If you suspect that you or someone you know has ADHD It is essential to find a professional who can assess your condition and provide you with the necessary treatment. While many people may choose to use the NHS, private diagnosis may be more effective and save you time and money in the long run.

There are concerns about the NHS's ability to meet current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients have to wait for weeks or months to get an appointment. This can be very stressful for those affected. adult adhd diagnosis uk feel that the NHS assessment services aren't as good as they could be.


It's not surprising, then, that more adults choose to have a private assessment. However the BBC Panorama investigation has raised serious concerns about the quality of care at some private clinics. The undercover programme revealed that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone and claimed that patients were ADHD when they weren't.

A private examination will typically begin with a series of screening questionnaires that you will be asked to complete and return to your doctor. The screenings are designed to determine whether you exhibit the symptoms of ADHD and are also standardised. The results will 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 medical and family background, as well as how the symptoms of ADHD affect your daily life. The clinician will also conduct physical examinations and cognitive tests. You will be diagnosed with ADHD according to your specific situation and given a treatment program.

Once you have been diagnosed with ADHD The doctor will send a letter to your GP with paperwork for a 'shared care agreement'. This allows you to continue to receive NHS medication while paying only the NHS prescription fee. You can also visit your private doctor to keep track of appointments and receive CBT therapy, should it be needed.

What happens if I do not get an appointment?

In the case of ADHD, a clear diagnosis and proper treatment can make all the difference. However, the NHS method of diagnosing ADHD is lengthy and difficult. Some adults are unable to wait that long to seek out private specialists to evaluate their condition. This could save time and frustration but it's important to recognize that this isn't necessarily a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.

A professional who has experience diagnosing ADHD will be able to give a more thorough evaluation than an NHS psychiatrist. This could include a physical exam and tests such as hearing and vision. It will also involve questionnaires and checklists. The person who conducts the assessment will also ask you about your family, medical and social histories as well as your symptoms. They could also use standard ADHD scales of rating and may also request your teachers or caregivers to evaluate 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 affect the family or work environment. They will also check whether these symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. Depression and anxiety, for example can trigger signs similar to those seen in ADHD. They will also look at your social and professional history to rule out issues such as financial hardships or abuse history, as well as drinking and drug addiction.

During your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare professional if you don't meet the criteria for ADHD. You can ask for another assessment if they disagree with their conclusion.

Individuals who have a private diagnosis of ADHD can choose to share this with their GP and the GP can then refer them back for shared management through the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD can access medications in this manner. Some GPs are hesitant to prescribe ADHD medication because they don't have a specialization in the condition or because it's expensive.

What is my next step if I disagree with my diagnosis?

Remember that your clinician must be considerate and sensitive to your concerns and feelings. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD symptoms can create significant problems for families and individuals. If your clinician doesn't agree with the diagnosis, they may be able to suggest alternative treatment options or diagnoses that might be more appropriate for you.

If your clinician decides that you don't meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis and they explain the reasons why. You may not have given enough details about your struggles or they might believe that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If you are not happy with this choice you may seek an additional opinion from a different doctor or take your case to the NHS complaints procedure.

It's important to consider that your doctor may find the process of assessment difficult, regardless of whether you select private or NHS care. This is not because of the individuals affected, but rather because NHS service provision is stretched to its limits.

GPs are also struggling to navigate the complicated process of diagnosing ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence more generally). They must make sure they offer a robust and safe, fair and fair service and that they comply with the GMC's requirements for sharing care prescribing.

The Panorama expose has revealed that private clinics employ quick diagnostic techniques, which could put patients at risk. This is a national scourge and a compelling reason to look at alternative options.

It is also important to note that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it harder for some people to be given a diagnosis. This is particularly true if they are of minority ethnicity, assigned female at birth or have other health and social circumstances that can affect how medical professionals evaluate the symptoms they exhibit.

If you're struggling with untreated ADHD symptoms and feel your life is being negatively affected, we are here to assist. Our doctors have experience diagnosing ADHD, and can provide support and treatment for your difficulties. You can schedule an appointment on our website or give us a phone to discuss how we might be able to assist.

What happens If you don't want me to take my medication?

You can get a diagnosis when you're concerned about ADHD symptoms, but do not need to take any medication. You can receive an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You could ask your GP to refer you to one of the centers that specialize in England or use the 'Right to Choose" route, which is more efficient.

Your appointment will include an online questionnaire, a clinic interview, and some validated assessments. This will help your physician to assess how you are affected by these symptoms and the effect they have on your daily activities. The doctor will take into consideration your previous experiences as well as your family history. It is important to provide truthful and accurate information.

If the clinician determines that you have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD If they determine that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD, they will give you an assessment. You will be asked if you are interested in discussing the possibility of taking a medication. Before making a decision it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of taking the medication. This is because the effects of medication can be long-term and may be harmful if taken properly.

The psychiatrist will provide you with an appointment and a treatment plan if you decide to take a medication. You could be prescribed ADHD medication for a prolonged period of time, depending on the severity of your symptoms and the length of time you've been experiencing these symptoms for. 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 treat ADHD has generated controversy, particularly because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed as a result of inadequate clinical assessments. We hesitate to claim that this doesn't happen because humans aren't exact creatures, and psychiatry hardly qualifies as a science. However, if you're experiencing ADHD symptoms and are let down by the NHS waiting times, then it may be a good idea to get an individual assessment.