How to Get the Best Out of an ADHD Private Assesment

Following the BBC's Panorama program exposed a number of clinics that rushed people through online assessments, not following national guidelines, the quality of private ADHD assessments has been questioned. It is important not to misinterpret the anecdotal evidence in the BBC's Panorama programme.

It's not surprising that a lot of patients choose to pay for private assessments because waiting time can be very long.

What is ADHD assessment?

If you or your child is struggling with ADHD symptoms You may need an expert assessment and diagnose to determine how it affects your performance and overall health. Psychiatrists have been trained to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. They also offer assistance and treatment options, such as medication.

Adults who are concerned they may have ADHD can be recommended by their GP to a private specialist. Or, they can contact the service to schedule an appointment with an ADHD-trained psychiatrist. The process of an ADHD assessment varies from the provider to the provider. It usually starts with a questionnaire to determine if you are suffering from certain ADHD symptoms. Forms for observing are usually given to you to hand out to friends, family or work colleagues to complete as part of the screening process. These forms are essential to ensure that your appointment runs smoothly and that the clinician has the information before meeting you.

If the screening results indicate a high likelihood that you are suffering from ADHD symptoms you will be invited to attend an in-person ADHD assessment session with the psychiatrist. It is typically an hour or so long and will involve an exchange of information about the current challenges you face as well as your history of ADHD symptoms, and the impact that they have on your daily functioning. The psychiatrist will also ask you to rate how many ADHD symptoms are a problem in your day-to-day life, as well as in particular situations like school or at work.

The doctor will then write an extensive assessment report and explain what the results of the examination can help inform your future treatment decisions. This includes whether you want to explore a trial of medication and in the event that you do, which one may be most appropriate for your specific situation.

If you've been diagnosed with ADHD, you should inquire with your GP to see if they are willing to sign an agreement on shared-care to ensure you get the medication that you need through the NHS. It is also recommended to inform your car insurance company if you haven't already done so, that you have an ADHD diagnosis, as it could affect your cost.

What is the cost for an ADHD assessment?

A comprehensive ADHD private evaluation usually involves several sessions and costs anywhere between PS300 and PS1200. However, private healthcare providers will take the person's financial situation into account and will be in a position to provide discounted or even free services for those struggling. Many GPs can refer patients to private ADHD clinics that provide these services under the NHS. This is a fantastic option for those who are trying to pay for an ADHD private assessment and would like to benefit from the new 'Right to Choose' pathway offered by the NHS in England.

private adult adhd assessment of an ADHD assessment usually starts by the patient filling out a questionnaire, or bringing in self-assessments and medical documentation from previous appointments. The professional will then conduct a medical assessment and may use a rating system. Some professionals may also include an assessment at home using a computer such as TOVA. This can provide a robust quantifiable marker for ADHD which measures the level of attention and the ability to be impulsive.

The professional will then formulate a diagnosis using the information collected. The diagnosis will be based upon the individual's ability to function in a variety of social situations. They will also consider whether the individual has any co-morbidities contributing to symptoms. In addition, they will look at the impact on specific circumstances, like parental disapproval and work stressors.


A medication prescription will not be issued after an ADHD assessment. The specialist will only prescribe medication when they believe that the patient needs treatment for ADHD to function effectively.

In recent years, several websites have popped up online that offer a quick and affordable diagnosis for a one-time fee. They're not as thorough or accurate as a consultation in person by a doctor, but they can be useful for those who just want to get things moving. You should let your provider know that you require a GP letter when you decide to utilize this service. Certain providers will require it, whereas others won't.

What is the process for ADHD assessment?

A private ADHD assessment is a medical examination conducted by a certified healthcare professional. These professionals are usually psychiatrists who are experienced in diagnosing ADHD and related conditions such as depression, anxiety and dyslexia.

The evaluation is conducted by an expert clinician who will interview the patient and go over any paperwork or questionnaires that were submitted prior to the appointment. Depending on the patient's circumstances and the severity of their symptoms, additional tests or screenings might be suggested.

An adult with ADHD could be required to complete the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA) which is a common questionaire that is that is used by a variety of psychiatrists across the world. It asks questions regarding the frequency of symptoms and the effects on a person's lifestyle and work, as well as relationships. It is crucial for adults with ADHD to be honest and sincere when answering the questions so that they receive an accurate diagnosis.

Children with ADHD may require a more detailed assessment and may require interviews with teachers, coaches, and daycare providers. The specialist could also request a sample from the child's report card and schoolwork.

In some cases, a specialist will want to visit the patient in a clinic or their home to assess their behavior and symptoms. They will request that the patient bring their GP referral letter as well as any questionnaires or forms that have been completed in advance of the appointment.

If a GP refers an ADHD patient for evaluation they should be acquainted with the NICE guidelines (87), which state that only a healthcare professional who is specialized in ADHD can diagnose or refuse an ADHD diagnosis. This includes GPs and consultant psychiatrists.

Remember that just because you could receive an NHS ADHD evaluation, it does not mean that the results will be accepted. Some insurers will still not recognize an ADHD diagnosis and might refuse to pay in the event of an accident.

What are the benefits of an ADHD assessment?

ADHD is an illness of the brain that affects the way the brain functions and can cause problems in areas like working memory planning, organisation and working memory. This disorder can impact the lives of children and adults and that's why it's crucial that those who suffer from the symptoms are assessed by a specialist. An assessment can give you the necessary information to comprehend your symptoms and choose the best treatment for you.

A specialist can conduct an extensive diagnostic interview than a quiz on the internet, which is not able to assess all the symptoms an individual may be suffering from. A thorough discussion with a mental health professional, psychiatrist or psychologist is required to diagnose ADHD. If you aren't at ease asking your physician for an opinion, you can also find specialists who offer private appointments. However, you should be aware that the cost of private assessments could be a significant amount more than the NHS rate.

An ADHD assessment can help you determine the right treatment to manage symptoms and improve your life. Finding the right treatment could make a huge difference to your mood and energy levels, as well as your overall health. Your specialist will be able to advise you on the most effective way to manage your symptoms, that could include changes in lifestyle and medication, or other treatments.

Undiagnosed individuals may experience difficulties with everyday tasks, and may feel like failures in their relationships and work. A diagnosis of ADHD can alter that perception and provide the support and tools they require to succeed.

The right diagnosis can also be vital for children and young people as they make it much easier to access medical treatment through the NHS. Long wait times on the NHS can be stressful for families with children. Diverse Diagnostics' private ADHD assessment can speed up the process so that your child teenager receives the treatment they require faster.