ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
Patients are being diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed powerful drugs after unreliable video call assessments at private clinics according to an BBC Panorama investigation has found. The undercover investigation occurred after tips were received. A plethora of patients and whistleblowers contacted.
Many people are forced to pay for private assessments because of the NHS waiting list. But does it actually work?
Why do I need an individual diagnostic?
If adhd diagnosis in adults think you or someone you know has ADHD, it's important to find a doctor who can evaluate your condition and provide you with the appropriate treatment. While many people may choose to go with the NHS but an individual diagnosis can be more efficient and can save you both time and money in the long run.
There are concerns that the NHS is unable to cope with the current demand for its services for ADHD assessments. Patients are waiting for weeks or even months for an appointment, and this can be a source of stress for those who suffer from the condition. Many people also believe that the NHS assessment services are not as efficient as they could be.
It's not a surprise, then, that more adults choose to have a private assessment. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care offered by some private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics rushed through assessments over the phone and telling patients they were suffering from ADHD when, in reality, they did not.
A private assessment usually begins with a series screening questionnaires which you'll be asked to complete and submit to the clinician. The screenings are standardised and designed to determine if you exhibit symptoms of ADHD. The results of these tests help the doctor decide if you should attend an appointment to diagnose.
The clinician will then assess your medical background and family history as and the effects of ADHD symptoms on your daily life. The doctor will also conduct a physical exam and cognitive tests. Based on your specific circumstances you will then be diagnosed with ADHD and given a detailed treatment plan.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD, your clinician will send paperwork to your GP to request a shared-care agreement. This allows you to continue receiving NHS medication while paying only the NHS prescription fee. You can also visit your private doctor to keep up with appointments and receive CBT therapy if necessary.
What is the outcome if I don't receive an answer to my question?
A good diagnosis and the right treatment can make a big difference in the case of ADHD. However the NHS process for diagnosing ADHD is lengthy and painful. Some adults can't wait this long and turn to private professionals for an assessment. This can save time and frustration, but it's important to realize that this isn't an assurance of a correct diagnosis.
A professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD will be able to give a more thorough evaluation than an NHS psychiatrist. This can include a physical examination as well as tests like hearing and vision. It may also include checklists and questionnaires. The person who conducts the assessment will also ask you about your family medical and social history as well as your symptoms. They could also utilize standard ADHD rating scales and might be able to request your teachers or caregivers for ratings, too.
When assessing adult ADHD The healthcare professional will look for five or more symptoms over six months that are severe enough to cause disruption in the demands of work or at home. They will also look to determine whether the symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. Depression and anxiety, for example, can cause ADHD-like signs. They will also assess your work and social history to rule out any issues such as financial difficulties, the history of abuse and alcohol or drug abuse.
During your NHS assessment during your NHS assessment, you will be informed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare professional if you do not meet the criteria for ADHD. They will explain their reasoning and you are able to request a new assessment if you are not satisfied with their decision.
Anyone who is diagnosed of ADHD privately may choose to discuss it with their GP. The GP can then refer the patient back for shared management through the NHS. Adults who have been diagnosed as ADHD are able to access medications in this manner. However, doctors have been known to be reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication due to the fact that they are not experts in the condition and also 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 feelings and concerns. They will understand that unmanaged ADHD symptoms can cause significant difficulties for people and families. If your doctor isn't satisfied with the diagnosis, they may be able suggest other treatment options that are more appropriate for you.
If your doctor decides that you don't meet the criteria for an ADHD diagnosis They will give the reasons. It could be that you haven't provided enough details about your difficulties or they may think that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with this decision then you can seek another opinion from a different clinician or submit your complaint to the NHS complaints procedure.
It is important to remember that your doctor might find the process of assessing challenging, whether you opt for private care or NHS care. This isn't because of the people involved, but rather due to the fact that NHS service provision is stretched to its limits.
GPs also struggle to navigate the complex diagnosis process for ADHD, autism (and neurodivergence generally). They must be sure they offer a high-quality service that is both safe and fair, and also meet the standards of shared care prescribing as outlined by the GMC.
Panorama's exposé has revealed that private clinics employ techniques for diagnosing problems that are not as thorough, and could put patients at risk. This is a national scandal and a valid reason to look at alternatives.
It is important to remember that the stigma associated with being diagnosed with ADHD can make it more difficult for some people to be given an assessment. This is especially true when the person is of a different ethnicity, was assigned female at birth or has other health and social circumstances which can affect how medical professionals view their symptoms.
We can help you if think your life is affected by untreated ADHD symptoms. Our doctors are experts in identifying ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment to help you overcome your difficulties. You can schedule an appointment via our website or give us call to see what we can do to assist.
What happens If you don't wish me to take my medication?
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. You can get an adult ADHD assessment through the NHS. You can ask your doctor to send you to one of the centers that specialize in England or go through the "Right to Choose" pathway which is faster.
Your appointment will comprise an assessment that is validated and a consultation with a clinician and an online questionnaire. This will allow your clinician to determine how you are affected by these symptoms and what impact they affect your daily routine. The clinician will consider your personal experiences as well as your family history. It is crucial that you provide accurate and truthful responses.
If the physician determines that you meet all of the diagnostic criteria for ADHD and ADHD, they will be able to provide you with a diagnosis. You will be asked if you would like to discuss the possibility of taking medication. Before deciding it is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using a medication. This is because the effects of medication can last for a long time and cause serious adverse side effects if used in a safe manner.
If you decide to take medication, your doctor will provide you with the prescription and plan. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, and the duration of time you've been suffering from them, it might be recommended to take ADHD medication for an extended period of time. However, it's important to keep in mind that there are other options to help manage ADHD symptoms, including diet, exercise and cognitive behaviour therapy.
The BBC Panorama 'expose' of private clinics diagnosing ADHD has caused a lot of controversy, particularly because it suggests that patients are being misdiagnosed because of insufficient clinical assessments. We hesitate to say this isn't true because humans aren't precise creatures, and psychiatry rarely qualifies as a science. If you're experiencing ADHD symptoms but are annoyed by the NHS waiting times, it might be beneficial to pay for an assessment.