ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerful medications following unreliable video call tests at private clinics, an BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation was conducted following tip-offs, and dozens of patients and whistleblowers were listened to.
Many people are required to pay for private assessments because of the NHS waiting list. But is it really effective?
What is the reason I need an individual diagnosis?
If you think you or someone you know suffers from ADHD, it's important to find a professional who can assess your condition and provide you with the appropriate treatment. Although many people opt to go with the NHS however, an individual diagnosis can be more effective and save you both time and money in the long run.
There are concerns that the NHS is unable to cope with the demands of current services for ADHD assessments. Patients are waiting for months or even weeks for an appointment. This can be extremely stressful for those affected. In addition, many people believe that the quality of NHS assessment services is not quite as high as it should be.
It's not a surprise, then that more adults opt to get a private evaluation. However the BBC Panorama investigation has raised grave concerns about the quality of care at some private clinics. The undercover program revealed that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone, and were telling patients they had ADHD when, in reality they didn't.
A private assessment usually starts with a series screening questionnaires that you will be asked to complete 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 determine if you are a candidate for an appointment for diagnosis.
The clinician will then conduct a detailed assessment of your medical and family history, as well as how the symptoms of ADHD affect your daily life. The doctor will also conduct an examination of your body and cognitive tests. You will be diagnosed with ADHD based on your situation and given a treatment plan.
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 receiving NHS medication, while only paying the NHS prescription fee. You can also visit your personal doctor to attend appointments and receive CBT therapy, if necessary.
What happens if I don't get a diagnosis?
In the case of ADHD, a good diagnosis and treatment plan can make a huge difference. The NHS can be slow and frustrating when it comes down to diagnosing ADHD. Some adults cannot wait that long and seek out private providers to evaluate their situation. This could save time and frustration, but it's important to understand that this isn't necessarily a guarantee of an accurate diagnosis.
A professional who has expertise in diagnosing ADHD can give an extensive evaluation than a psychiatrist working for the NHS. This may include a medical examination as well as tests like hearing or vision. It will also include questionnaires and check-lists. The person conducting the assessment will also ask about your family history, as well as social and medical history in addition to asking about your symptoms. They could also employ the standard ADHD scales of rating and request your teachers or caregivers to give you a score.
When evaluating adult ADHD Healthcare professionals will be looking for five or more symptoms over six months that are serious enough to cause disruption in the demands of work or at home. They will also check whether these symptoms are a result of other mental disorders. For instance, depression or anxiety can trigger symptoms similar to ADHD. They will also review your professional and social background to rule out issues such as financial hardships, abuse histories, and alcohol and drug abuse.
During your NHS assessment, you will be told by a psychiatrist or another healthcare professional if you do not meet the criteria for ADHD. You can ask for another assessment if they disagree with their decision.
Anyone who is diagnosed of ADHD privately may choose to discuss it with their GP. The GP can then refer the person back to share management via the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD can access medication in this way. However, doctors have been recognized as being reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they do not specialise in the disorder and because it's expensive.
What is my next step if I disagree with my diagnosis?
Remember that your therapist must be respectful and sympathetic to your concerns and feelings. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD can cause major problems for families and individuals. If your doctor isn't satisfied with the diagnosis, he or she may be able suggest other treatment options that are more appropriate for you.
If your physician decides that you do not meet the criteria needed to qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD They will then explain the reason. It could be due to the fact that you didn't provide enough details about your struggles or they believe that a different condition can explain your traits (symptoms) more effectively than ADHD. If you're not satisfied with the decision you may seek a second opinion from a different clinician or follow the NHS complaints process.
It is important to be aware that your physician may find the assessment process frustrating, whether you choose private or NHS care. This isn't because of the patients affected, but rather because NHS services are stretched to its limits.
GPs also face challenges in navigating the complex process of diagnosing ADHD, autism (and neurodivergence in general). They must ensure that they provide a reliable safe, fair and secure service and that they comply with the requirements of the GMC for sharing care prescribing.
Panorama's exposé has revealed that private clinics employ techniques for diagnosing problems that are not as thorough, and can put people in danger. This is a national catastrophe and an excellent reason to look at alternatives.
It is also worth noting that the stigma of being diagnosed with ADHD can make it more difficult for some people to be given the diagnosis. This is especially true when they are of minority ethnicity, assigned female at birth or have other social and health circumstances that affect the way medical professionals evaluate the symptoms they exhibit.
We can help if you find your life negatively affected by unmanaged ADHD symptoms. Our doctors have experience diagnosing ADHD and are able to offer support and treatment for your problems. Contact us today or make an appointment online to discuss how how can i get diagnosed with add we can help.
What happens If you don't wish me to take my medication?
If you are concerned about ADHD symptoms but do not want to use medication, it is possible to be diagnosed without taking medication. You can get an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You can ask your doctor to recommend you to one of the centers for specialists in England or use the 'Right to Choose" method, which is quicker.
Your appointment will include a validated assessment and a consultation with a clinician and an online questionnaire. This will allow your clinician to assess how you are affected by these symptoms and what impact they have on your daily activities. The doctor will take into consideration your previous experiences as well as your family history. It is important that you give honest and truthful information.
If the doctor decides that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD They can provide you with an assessment. You will be asked if you would like to discuss the possibility of taking medication. Before deciding, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using a medication. This is because the effects of medications can last for a long time and be harmful if taken in a proper manner.
If you decide to take medication, your 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 could be suggested that you take ADHD medication for a longer period of time. However, it's important to keep in mind that there are alternatives to medication to manage ADHD symptoms, such as exercise, diet and cognitive behavior therapy.
The BBC Panorama 'expose' of private clinics diagnosing ADHD has caused a lot of controversy especially because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed as a result of inadequate diagnostic tests. We're not sure that this does not happen, because humans are awfully inexact, and psychiatry not a science at all. If you're experiencing ADHD symptoms and are frustrated by the NHS waiting times, then it may be a good idea to take out an assessment with a private practitioner.