ADHD Video Call Diagnosis - A BBC Panorama Investigation Finds
BBC Panorama found that patients are diagnosed with ADHD in private clinics and prescribed powerful medications after video calls that are not reliable. The undercover investigation was carried out following tip-offs and dozens patients and whistleblowers were spoken to.
Many people are forced to pay for private assessments due to the NHS waiting list. But is it really working?
Why do I need a private diagnosis?
If you or someone you know suffers from ADHD You should consult a specialist who can accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe the most appropriate treatment. Many people opt to use the NHS however a private diagnosis is usually more accurate and can save time and money.
There are concerns about the NHS's ability to meet the current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients have to wait for months or even weeks for an appointment. This can be very stressful for those affected. Many people feel that the NHS assessment services aren't as efficient as they could be.
It's not surprising, then, that more adults choose to get a private evaluation. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns about the quality of care provided by private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics rushed through tests over the phone and telling patients they were suffering from ADHD when, in reality they didn't.
A private assessment usually starts with a series of questionnaires for screening that you will be asked to complete and then submit to your doctor. The tests are designed to see if you are suffering from symptoms of ADHD and are standardized. These results are used to aid the doctor in deciding whether or not you need to attend an entire diagnostic appointment.
The clinician will then evaluate your medical background and family history, as well as the impact of ADHD symptoms on your life. The clinician will also perform a physical exam and cognitive test. Depending on your circumstances you will be diagnosed with ADHD and given a detailed treatment plan.
If you are diagnosed with ADHD The doctor will write to your GP with a request for a'shared-care agreement'. This will allow you to continue receiving NHS medication (only paying the NHS prescription cost) while you see your private clinician for ongoing appointments and CBT therapy when needed.
What happens if I don't have a diagnosis?
If you suffer from ADHD, a good diagnosis and treatment plan can make a huge difference. 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 you time and frustration, however it is important to keep in mind that it does not guarantee an accurate diagnosis.
A professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD will be able to provide a more thorough assessment than an NHS psychiatrist. This could include a physical exam and tests like hearing and vision. This could include questionnaires and check-lists. The person conducting the evaluation will also inquire about your family medical and social history as well as your symptoms. They could also employ the standard ADHD ratings scales, and may need to request your teachers or caregivers for their ratings, too.
When evaluating adults with ADHD, the healthcare professional will look for five or more symptom within a period of six months that are severe enough to interfere with work or home life. They will also determine whether the symptoms are related to mental health issues in other ways. Depression and anxiety, for instance, can cause ADHD-like signs. They will also look at your work and social background to rule out issues like financial hardship, a history of abuse, and alcohol or drug abuse.
During your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional if you don't fit the criteria for ADHD. You can request a second assessment if they disagree with their decision.
Individuals who have a private diagnosis of ADHD can choose to share this with their GP, and the GP can send them back for shared management under the NHS. This is how many adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD receive medications. Some GPs are reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication because they don't specialize in the condition or because it's expensive.
What if I disagree with my diagnosis?
It is important to remember that your clinician should be respectful and empathetic to your concerns and feelings. They will know that unmanaged ADHD can cause major problems for families and individuals. If your clinician doesn't agree with the diagnosis, they might be able to suggest alternative treatment options or diagnoses that might be more suitable for you.
If your physician decides that you do not meet the criteria to be considered a case of ADHD, they will explain why. You may have not provided enough details about your struggles or they might believe that another condition is more likely to explain your symptoms (traits). If you're not happy with the decision, you can seek another opinion from a different doctor or use the NHS complaints procedure.
Whether you go private or access NHS healthcare waiting times for an assessment could be lengthy and it's important to consider that your doctor might find the process frustrating. This isn't due to the patients affected, but rather because NHS service delivery is stretched to the limit.
GPs are also struggling to navigate the complicated process of diagnosing ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence more generally). They must ensure that they provide a solid safe, fair and secure service and that they meet the requirements of the GMC for shared care prescribing.
The Panorama exposé has revealed that private clinics employ quick diagnostic techniques, which can put patients in danger. This is a national scourge and a compelling 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 or was a female at birth or has other health and social circumstances that can influence the way medical professionals perceive their symptoms.
If you're struggling with unmanaged ADHD symptoms and feel your life is negatively impacted, we are here to assist. Our clinicians have experience in diagnosing ADHD and can provide assistance and treatment for your problems. You can schedule an appointment via our website or give us an email to find out how we might be able to assist.
What is the consequence if I don't want to take a medication?
You can receive a diagnosis when you're concerned about ADHD symptoms but don't wish to take 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 use the 'Right to Choose" method, which is quicker.
Your appointment will consist of a validated assessment as well as a medical interview and an online questionnaire. This will allow your clinician to understand how you are affected by these symptoms and the impact they have on your daily activities. The clinician will consider your previous experiences and family history. It is essential to give accurate and honest answers.
If the doctor decides that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD, they can give you a diagnosis. You will be asked if would like to discuss the possibility of taking medication. Before you make a decision it is essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of using a medication. The effects of medications last for a long time, and they can have serious side effects if taken incorrectly.
If you decide to take medication, the doctor will provide you with an outline of the treatment and a prescription. You could be
