Private ADHD Assessments

With NHS wait times for ADHD assessments at an all-time high it's tempting to look for alternatives. Private ADHD assessments are an option but they come with their own set of pros and cons.

Panorama The Panorama, a BBC programme, recently found that some private clinics force patients through tests of poor quality and make them diagnose them incorrectly. This is unfair for those affected.

What is a private assessment?

A private ADHD assessment is a meeting with a healthcare professional that specializes in diagnosing ADHD. It could be a Psychiatrist, Specialist ADHD nurse or another "other appropriately qualified healthcare professional" [Nice Guidelines].

You can request your GP for a referral for an adult ADHD assessment on the NHS. They will be attentive to your concerns and request you to fill out an assessment form, and then place you on the NHS waiting list.

You can also schedule an ADHD evaluation with a mental health professional like Priory. There are a number health centers and hospitals across the nation. Some offer an appointment in as little as 24 hours. Each one has its own criteria for determining if a GP referral letter is required (some do, some do not). If you decide to go this option then your GP can still be involved and a shared-care agreement can be signed between the GP patient, the patient and the consultant psychiatrist in the event that any medication is prescribed. A official diagnosis of ADHD will be required to be granted workplace protections.

What should you expect during a private assessment?

A private ADHD assessment is typically an organized interview with a medical professional who will inquire about your symptoms and how they impact your daily life. In addition, you will be asked to fill out an array of questionnaires as well as certain cognitive tests to give the complete understanding of your situation. These tools are usually non-invasive and non-invasive.

You will be required to fill out questionnaires for pre-screening prior to your appointment date. These questionnaires help your doctor determine whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. It is essential that these are returned in the shortest time possible prior to your consultation, to ensure that you don't have to wait around for a long period of time before the appointment begins.

When you meet with your psychiatrist consultant, they will talk through your medical history and lifestyle and take into consideration any issues you might have experienced in the past. It is essential to be open with your doctor to help them be aware of the issues you are experiencing and come up with an accurate diagnosis.

During the interview your psychiatrist will consider any concerns you may have regarding your work performance or in your relationships. They will also consider any other symptoms you might be experiencing, such as depression and anxiety. If they believe these symptoms are related to your ADHD, then they will discuss it with you and suggest any treatment options that they believe you would benefit from.

Once your psychiatrist has finished the interview, they will review the details you have provided. They will then share their findings with you and answer any questions that you may have. They will typically recommend that you start medication, if appropriate and will provide you with a the prescription to take with you.

While there is a growing awareness of the problem but it is difficult to determine a precise diagnosis of ADHD. This is due to a variety of reasons, including prejudices against women and minorities among healthcare professionals. This means that many people with untreated ADHD remain undiagnosed for years, which can cause difficulties in their personal and professional lives.

What is the cost of a private assessment?

Private ADHD assessments can be expensive. There are alternatives available to those who aren't able to pay for the full price. For instance, some companies offer a sliding scale rate dependent on a person's income. Other providers also offer pro bono assessments to those who can't afford an assessment at all.

Another option for those who cannot pay for a private evaluation is to request their insurance company to cover the cost of the examination. You can do this by calling your insurer directly and asking about coverage options. Most insurance companies have a list of providers that includes the locations or providers that accept their coverage. This can help narrow down the options for those who do not have access to a psychiatrist in private.

Private ADHD tests are typically carried out by a specialist nurse psychologist, or psychiatrist. They are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK. During Recommended Looking at , a healthcare professional will interview the patient and examine their medical background. They will also examine the person's symptoms and how they impact their daily activities. The healthcare professional will look at any family-related mental health issues.

It is important to keep in mind that there aren't any definitive ADHD tests. The diagnosis depends on the expertise and experience of a healthcare professional. Therefore, it is important to choose a healthcare professional who has the knowledge and experience to diagnose and treat ADHD.

It is essential to inform your healthcare professional that you are seeking a diagnosis of ADHD when you seek an assessment. This will ensure that the test is thorough, and covers all relevant aspects of the condition. It is also beneficial to provide the healthcare professional with any additional information, like the history of ADHD in your family or any other mental health issues.

It is important to remember that an ADHD evaluation can take several weeks to complete. It is crucial to schedule an appointment as soon as possible after you have inquired.

Can I get a diagnosis that is private for ADHD?

ADHD is a difficult diagnosis for GPs. If your GP isn't knowledgeable about the disorder, they may recommend you to a specialist like a Psychiatrist or Psychologist. These healthcare professionals are certified to evaluate and diagnose ADHD in adults and children. They are also able to prescribe medication if needed.

It is important to know that only Psychologists or Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD in the UK. If you are evaluated by a nurse, Counsellor or any other mental health professional, they are not able to provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD. This is because GPs are only under legal obligations to sign shared-care agreements with NHS mental health services if you have been diagnosed by a qualified Psychiatrist Psychologist and then prescribed medication by that GP.

If you choose to have an assessment at a private clinic, you'll be required to pay. However, the examination must be based on research and NICE guidelines. It is important to note that the services you have access to through private health insurance might not be as extensive as NHS services. It is crucial that you find an accredited clinic and follows the highest standards of care.


After you've received a diagnosis and have completed your private assessment, you'll have consult with your GP regarding whether or not you should seek treatment for ADHD. It is crucial to be aware of the benefits and risks of taking medications for ADHD before you make a decision.

A Psychiatrist can be trusted to evaluate your symptoms, look into any co-morbid conditions you have, and determine the best option for you. If you decide to use medication for ADHD it is recommended that you be adjusted up to the final dose by your GP prior to leaving their treatment.

In the past it was commonplace for private clinics to diagnose ADHD in children and adults and then offer them medications. Recently, it was discovered that many companies did not accurately assess their patients and were giving inaccurate diagnoses. This puts both children and adults at risk, and it is essential to choose an accredited and reliable clinic when seeking the diagnosis of ADHD.