How to Find a Private ADHD Assessment in Leicester

The lack of investment in NHS mental health services has resulted in demand exceeding the availability, resulting in long wait lists for ADHD assessments. This has caused people to turn to private clinics that charge for poor assessments and inadequate follow-up care.

Some private providers follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, but others are not. It's important to do your research prior to making an appointment.

What is ADHD Assessment?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental issue characterised by persistent and impairing inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can be diagnosed as early as early childhood and can persist into adulthood. Many people have symptoms throughout their lives. ADHD can impact your work, family life as well as relationships and social life.

A specialist psychiatrist will evaluate your symptoms and determine if you are suffering from ADHD. private adhd assessment adult cost will also take into consideration other conditions that might be causing symptoms, such physical or mental illnesses.

NHS referrals to a specialist psychiatrist for an assessment of ADHD can be arranged through your GP. Patients must be aware that "right-to-choose" legislation permits them to self-refer for an assessment at a private psychiatric facility when they have an authorised doctor in England.

The comprehensive assessment of ADHD is conducted in a single or two appointments. The psychiatrist will take a detailed medical history and undertake an enumeration of the person's mental health.

The doctor will also ask the patient about their family and personal history, including any past or present mental health difficulties. He or she will also talk to other members of the patient's family, and friends and colleagues who can give information about the patient's behavior in different situations (e.g. school, church and Scout groups). In some instances, the doctor may use pre-screening questionnaires which can be completed in advance of the appointment.

The doctor will also conduct objective tests to assess your impulsivity, attention and motor activity. This is an important element of diagnosing the condition and can be done in clinic or via post. The doctor will then prepare a report for the patient, and it will be shared with their doctor. The clinician will then discuss the report with the patient and decide on the treatment plan, which could include medication or behavioural therapy. If the patient chooses to receive medication, they may return to his or her GP to receive prescriptions on a regular basis. The GP is responsible for monitoring and directing the medication and should be aware of potential side effects.

Who should consider an ADHD Assessment

ADHD is a complex mental health condition that can affect the way you interact and behave with other people. It can cause issues in a variety of areas of your life, such as relationships, work and home. It is, however, possible to manage the symptoms of ADHD with medication and other treatments. If you suspect you might be suffering from ADHD it is essential to seek the assistance of an expert physician or nurse.

Your GP can recommend an ADHD assessment however, psychiatrists are a medically qualified doctor who specialises in mental health and is capable of providing you with the best care. The psychiatrist will take a full psychiatric history and will also look into any other medical conditions that could be present alongside or instead of the ADHD diagnosis. The psychiatrist will then make the diagnosis and suggest the best treatment.

During the examination, the psychiatrist will ask you a number of questions about your behavior and how it has impacted your life. They will also inquire about your family history, as well as any past health issues. It is important to be as honest as possible and to give the fullest picture of your situation.

If your psychiatrist believes that you suffer from ADHD, he or she will recommend a plan of treatment that could include medication as well as other treatments. The psychiatrist will then send an extensive report to your GP with their recommendations. In accordance with the policies of your GP they could then recommend you ongoing treatment through the NHS through an agreement called a Shared Care Agreement.

Anecdotal reports from certain NHS governing bodies show the tension between the desire to cut down long waiting times for patients as well as the potential extra cost of providing the right treatment for ADHD (87). This results in young people suffering from severe comorbidities due to unmanaged ADHD being refused care, or receiving no care in the first place (88).

It can be difficult to get an accurate diagnosis of ADHD because there are a lot of preconceived notions about what someone with ADHD looks like. This can make it harder for some people to be diagnosed, especially when they are of color, assigned gender, or are not an native English speaker.

How do you assess ADHD?

During the assessment, you will talk with an expert who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist will inquire about your symptoms as well as your experiences with them. They will also look for other possible causes for your symptoms. This is crucial, since it can help to avoid unnecessary treatment or other conditions being diagnosed. It could take a long time to conduct a thorough evaluation but it will let your specialist make a precise diagnosis.

The evaluator may also utilize tests to assess your mental health. This may include questionnaires, a clinical interview and brain scans. In certain instances the evaluator might suggest that you have more extensive testing performed. These tests will confirm the diagnosis and assist you in determining the best treatment.

Then, you will be asked if you'd like to discuss medication as part of your treatment. If you decide to do this, your doctor will request a prescription from your GP. Your doctor will then be responsible for ensuring that your treatment is monitored and any adjustments made as necessary.

It is important to note that some patients need private assessments in order circumvent gaps or blocks in NHS services (see figure 1). Participants to the consensus acknowledged that certain private healthcare providers profit of patients who are desperate for a response from their NHS services. Certain private ADHD diagnostic reports fail to show that the guidelines for clinical care were adhered to, which could cause problems for patients who want to return to NHS treatment.


In some cases, a diagnosis of ADHD may reveal other health concerns, such as depression or anxiety. Your doctor will discuss these other health concerns with you, and recommend treatments as appropriate.

Adults suffering from ADHD can be treated with medication, lifestyle modifications, and therapy. Medications are typically prescribed by psychologists, psychiatrists or social workers. Check your insurance policy to determine if it covers these services.

Support groups like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and CHADD can give you names of professionals who are specialists in treating ADHD. You can also request an appointment with your GP.

What is the cost of an ADHD Assessment?

The cost of an ADHD assessment varies based on the person performing the test, if neuropsychological testing is required as well as if other tests are ordered. The most popular method to cover the cost of an ADHD assessment is through insurance coverage. There are several ways to determine whether you are eligible for insurance coverage. It is essential to get in touch with the company prior to when you schedule any tests or any appointments scheduled. The insurance company may also be able to provide you with a listing of providers that accept your specific insurance coverage.

For individuals who are unable to access NHS services, private healthcare organisations are typically the only option for ADHD assessment and diagnosis. Private healthcare organizations provide assessments quicker than the NHS. Prices vary but they are generally more affordable. They also can provide complete ADHD diagnostic reports.

A significant number of people seeking assistance in the UK for ADHD are not able to receive a diagnosis or treatment on the NHS due to lengthy wait times. FOI requests submitted by BBC News reveal that NHS Trusts across the country have waiting lists for adult ADHD services that can run up to five years. This is due to a lack in funding and a reluctance by certain services to increase budgets to meet the demand.

Some people who are unable to wait for an NHS diagnosis, turn to online self-referral websites where they can pay a one-time fee and receive a diagnosis within minutes. However these websites should be approached with caution. They are not always monitored and may not follow good clinical practice guidelines. The quality of online services is also a matter of debate. They may not be able offer the right treatment or advice to patients who have been diagnosed.

There is a growing fear that people are being 'over diagnosed' with ADHD however, it is evident that many who have the condition are not receiving the proper care and support from the NHS. There is a need for more investment in mental health services and a better coordination between state-funded services to ensure that adults with ADHD are properly referred.