ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds<br /><br />Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerul drugs after unreliable video call tests at private clinics as an BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation was carried out after tip-offs and dozens of patients and whistleblowers were listened to.<br /><br />Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean that a lot of patients are forced to pay for a private assessment. But does it actually work?<br /><br />Why do I require a private diagnosis?<br /><br />If you or someone you love has ADHD It is important to consult a specialist who can accurately assess your condition and prescribe best treatment. Many people prefer to utilize the NHS but an individual diagnosis is often more accurate and can save time and money.<br /><br />There are some concerns about the NHS's ability to meet current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients have to wait for months or even weeks for an appointment. This can be extremely difficult for those affected. Many people also believe that the NHS assessment services are not as good as they could be.<br /><br />It's not surprising, then that more people choose to undergo a private examination. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care provided by some private clinics. The undercover programme reported that some clinics were rushing through tests over the phone and telling patients they were suffering from ADHD even though, in actual they didn't.<br /><br />A private assessment usually begins with a series screening questionnaires that you will be asked to fill out and then submit to your doctor. The screenings are designed and standardised to determine if you show symptoms of ADHD. The results of these tests help the doctor decide if it is appropriate to schedule an appointment to diagnose.<br /><br />The clinician will then conduct a thorough assessment of your medical and family history, as well as how the symptoms of ADHD affect your daily life. The clinician will also conduct physical examinations and cognitive tests. Based on your situation you will be diagnosed with ADHD and given an outline treatment plan.<br /><br />After you've been diagnosed with ADHD The doctor will send a letter to your GP with paperwork for a'shared-care agreement'. This will allow you to continue receiving NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription fee) while also seeing your private clinician for ongoing appointments and CBT therapy, if needed.<br /><br />What happens if I do not get a diagnosis?<br /><br />If you suffer from ADHD, a clear diagnosis and treatment plan can make all the difference. However, the NHS process for diagnosing ADHD is lengthy and difficult. Many adults can't wait that long to look for private doctors to determine their situation. This can save you time and frustration, however it is important to remember that it is not a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.<br /><br />A professional with experience diagnosing ADHD can offer an extensive evaluation than a psychiatrist from the NHS. This may include a medical exam and tests such as hearing or vision. It may also include questionnaires and checklists. The person conducting the test will also ask about your family history, as well as medical and social history, and will also inquire about your symptoms. They may also use standard ADHD rating scales, and may ask your teachers or caregivers to evaluate you.<br /><br />When assessing adults with ADHD the doctor will look at five or more symptoms that have been present for at least six months and that are severe enough to interfere in the home or in the workplace. They will also look to determine if these symptoms are a result of other mental disorders. For instance, depression and anxiety can trigger ADHD-like symptoms. They will also look at your work and social life history to rule out problems like financial hardship, an abuse history, and alcohol or drug abuse.<br /><br />During the NHS assessment, a psychiatrist or another healthcare professional will tell you if they believe that you do not meet the criteria needed to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD. They will also explain why they think you are not and you can request another assessment if you disagree with their conclusion.<br /><br /><br /><br />People who receive a diagnosis of ADHD privately can decide to discuss the diagnosis with their GP. The GP can then refer the person to share management via the NHS. This is how some adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD receive medications. However, GPs are often hesitant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they do not specialise in the condition and also because it is expensive.<br /><br />What do I do if I don't agree with my diagnosis?<br /><br />Remember that your clinician must be considerate and sensitive to your concerns and feelings. They'll know that untreated ADHD can cause major problems for families and individuals. If your clinician disagrees with the diagnosis, they might be able to suggest alternative treatments and diagnoses that are more appropriate for you.<br /><br />If your doctor finds that you don't meet criteria for an ADHD diagnosis They will give the reasons. You may not have provided enough details about your issues, or they may believe that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/private-adult-adhd-diagnosis/">adhd diagnosis uk adults</a> 're not happy with the outcome, you can ask for an alternative opinion from a different physician or submit your complaint to the NHS complaints procedure.<br /><br />It is important to remember that your physician may find the process of assessment frustrating, whether you choose private or NHS care. This isn't due to the individuals involved, but rather because NHS services are stretched to the limit.<br /><br />GPs are also having difficulty navigating the complicated process of diagnosing ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence as a whole). They must ensure that they provide a reliable, fair and safe service, and that they are in compliance with the requirements of the GMC for shared care prescribing.<br /><br />Unfortunately, Panorama's expose has revealed that some private clinics are using shortcut diagnostic approaches and this can put patients at risk. This is a national scandal and a valid reason to think about alternatives.<br /><br />It is also worth noting that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it harder for certain people to receive a diagnosis. This is especially true when the person is of a different ethnicity or was a female when they were born. birth or has any other health or social issues that can influence the way that medical professionals evaluate their symptoms.<br /><br />If you are struggling with unmanaged ADHD symptoms and feel your life is negatively affected, we are here to assist. Our clinicians have experience in diagnosing ADHD, and can offer support and treatment for your problems. You can schedule an appointment on our website or give us a an email to find out what we can do to assist.<br /><br />What is the consequence if I don't want to take a medication?<br /><br />If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but don't want to take medication, it is possible to get a diagnosis without the need for medication. The NHS offers an adult ADHD assessment service. You can request an appointment with your GP to be assessed at one of the centers for specialists in England, or through the 'Right to Choose option which is quicker.<br /><br />Your appointment will consist of an authenticated assessment, a clinical interview, and an online questionnaire. This will help your physician to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they affect your daily routine. The clinician will also consider your previous experiences and family history. It is crucial to provide truthful and accurate information.<br /><br />If the doctor decides that you meet 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 medication. Before you make a decision it is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of taking a medication. This is because the effects of medications are long-lasting and could cause serious adverse side effects if used in a safe manner.<br /><br />When you choose to take medication, the psychiatrist will provide you with the prescription and plan. Depending on the severity your symptoms, as well as the duration of time you've been experiencing them, it may be suggested that you take ADHD medication for an extended period of time. However, it is also important to keep in mind that there are alternatives to medication to help manage ADHD symptoms, like diet, exercise and cognitive behavior therapy.<br /><br />The BBC Panorama 'expose' of private clinics that diagnose ADHD has caused a lot of controversy especially because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed as a result of inadequate assessment of their clinical needs. We are reticent to say that this does not happen since humans are incredibly inexact and psychiatry is not a science at all. If you're experiencing ADHD symptoms and are being frustrated by the NHS waiting times, then it may be a good idea to get an assessment with a private practitioner.<br /><br />