The Cost of an ADHD Assessment in the UK
If you opt for the NHS option, your examination and medication will be covered by the national health care system. However, the NHS generally has long waiting times.
In England there is also the option to get your ADHD evaluation funded privately through the "Right to Choose" option. The services you choose to use must be clinically relevant and not cost more than NHS services.
1. In-person assessment
During the examination, you will collaborate with a psychiatrist who is experienced to analyze your thoughts, presentations and experiences. You will be asked questions about your family history and any mental issues that you've faced in the past. The psychiatrist will gather information using a variety of sources like symptom checklists, behaviour rating scales and speaking to you, your family members or close friends, about how ADHD symptoms affect your life in various scenarios.
Depending on the healthcare professional's opinion, it may be necessary to determine whether or not your symptoms can be explained more effectively by other medical or psychiatric disorders that coexist with ADHD. For instance, anxiety disorders can often be similar to symptoms of ADHD and can have a similar impact on the work environment and relationships. Before considering how much does an adhd assessment cost or other treatments, it is crucial to determine if there are any other disorders that could trigger symptoms of ADHD.
The NHS Route
If you decide to go the NHS route, the first step will be to see your GP and explain why you think you are suffering from ADHD. Your GP should be aware of this and refer you for an assessment. However, waiting times for NHS assessments can be long. If you are unable to wait, you can opt for the private route which is more expensive but has shorter waiting times.
In your appointment, you'll be asked questions and then administered the QbTest which is a computer-based test that tests the primary ADHD symptoms of impulsivity and activity as well as attention. It is important to familiarise yourself with the characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD before your appointment, so that you can record examples of how you experience these symptoms in your life. The psychiatrist will then evaluate your answers and discuss the next steps are and whether you would like to look into medication options.
2. Online assessment
An online assessment is a possibility that is quicker than waiting for an NHS appointment. However, it is also more expensive. The cost of an online assessment for ADHD patients could range from PS240 to 2500. This includes the assessment as well as a full diagnosis report and the cost of medication.
In the UK Adults and children can get ADHD assessments through the NHS through an appointment from their doctor. The BBC's investigation reveals that there are lengthy waiting times to visit a specialist. One woman in Sheffield, for example, has been waiting two years. Her symptoms include suicidal impulses that could be an indication of undiagnosed ADHD.
The NHS guidelines for ADHD assessments stipulate that a patient should be evaluated by psychiatrists, specialist nurses or "other appropriately qualified healthcare professional" (NICE guidelines). During the assessment the psychiatrist will examine and interview the individual, by using questionnaires and observations of behavior. The psychiatrist will assess the severity of ADHD and its impact on daily living.
People suffering from ADHD often use strategies like calendars, diaries, and post-it note to manage their symptoms. These strategies are not always efficient. These methods can cause anxiety and confusion, particularly in those with mental health issues. The evaluation will include a physical exam and a review of the medical history.
Right to Choose is a scheme offered by the NHS that lets you select where you are assessed. It's available to anyone who has a registered GP in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. You can ask to be referred to a private service which is affiliated with the NHS that can provide an ADHD assessment, as long as they're licensed by the NHS and don't charge more than the NHS.
3. Diagnosis
An ADHD assessment is typically conducted by a specialist nurse or psychiatrist and follows the criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Adults may also be screened for comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety.
During your appointment, you will discuss with your doctor your current symptoms as well as any family history. You'll be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating systems. The expert will note your behaviour and how it affects other people like your spouse or your children.
The psychiatrist will take into consideration all of the information to determine if you fit the ADHD criteria, including subtypes. Your specialist will then explain their findings and recommend the best method of treatment.
If the doctor recommends a medication, a prescription will be given to you to take to a pharmacy of your preference. The prescription fees cover the administration procedure but do not cover the cost of the drugs themselves, which you will need to pay for separately. If you require an titration of your medication, further appointments may be required until you're stable on the medication.
Once you've been diagnosed, it's important to share the results with your GP and anyone else who should know, such as your employer or school. Our specialists can also write recommendation letters for educational accommodations for students, such as additional time in exams or reduced deadlines.
For some, getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a lengthy process, particularly when their GP doesn't take them seriously or doesn't believe they're suffering from the symptoms. If this is the case are one of them, you might want to read our page on Getting an ADHD Assessment for tips and guidance on how to have your GP refer you for an assessment.
4. Medication
There are a number of medications that are licensed to be used in the UK to treat ADHD. These are often stimulants, and include the well-known medication methylphenidate (Ritalin) and the more recent amphetamine-based medicine, Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). At first, it's recommended that patients start with a low dosage of medication which is then titrated up over several appointments until a patient is stabilized on their dosage. This is often accompanied with regular sessions with psychiatrists to discuss any side effects, and monitor the progress.
The use of medication can ease the symptoms caused by ADHD and lessen the burden that they place on individuals, families and workplaces. They function by increasing neurotransmitters that enable brain cells to communicate. However, the right drug can be very individual and determining it may take time. Once a person has been prescribed the correct medication, it's vital that they stick to their treatment program. Inability to attend appointments or stop taking their medication can lead to symptoms returning and the medication not working as efficiently.
A psychiatrist expert does not prescribe medication during the assessment session. However, they can refer you to an expert who will discuss your medication options with you and, if needed, prescribe. This could require additional appointment for titration to determine the correct dosage and regular checks to ensure the effectiveness of your medication. Most of the time the NHS will not cover your prescription, so you will have to pay an additional cost from your pharmacy.
Private clinics also charge for follow-up consultations. If required, this may include sending recommendation letters to schools or employers. It can include advice and direction about medication or any medical concerns between appointments by email or brief phone calls (limited to 20 minutes). However, the costs associated with the titration process and follow-up appointments are not included in the initial ADHD assessment appointment.
5. Follow-up
The NHS has long struggled to meet demand for adult ADHD assessments for adults with ADHD. According to BBC research, waiting times in many areas can be as long as 8 years.
The process of assessment is long but is necessary for a thorough diagnostic. The psychiatrist who will conduct the assessment will talk to you about your medical history and lifestyle, as well as your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. You may be asked to fill out questionnaires or rating systems to help the psychiatrist evaluate how you're feeling.
Following the clinical interview, your specialist will write an assessment report that will give you the diagnosis and suggestions for ongoing treatment and support if you have ADHD. They will also talk with you whether ADHD is a contributing factor to any health problems or issues you might have.
There are various kinds of ADHD and they all present differently in different people. This is why it's crucial to understand the specific symptoms you are experiencing so that your physician can determine the correct type of ADHD. A thorough ADHD assessment can help you determine the right treatment.
Private healthcare providers provide an alternative to an ADHD assessment for those who are in a position to speed up the process and wish to avoid waiting for an NHS appointment. Individuals can self-refer directly to an individual mental health professional, and this can provide faster access to specialists with experience in adult ADHD. This procedure usually begins with an initial consultation with a psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist with experience in adult ADHD evaluations.