You'll Never Guess This Diagnosis ADHD's Tricks 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 following unreliable video conversations. The undercover investigation was conducted after tips were reported. A plethora of patients and whistleblowers were interviewed.

Logjammed NHS waiting lists mean many people have no choice but to pay for a private exam. But is it really effective?

What is the reason I need a private diagnosis?

If you or someone you know suffers from ADHD, you should seek out a professional who can accurately assess your condition and prescribe the best treatment. Although many people opt to go with the NHS however, an individual diagnosis can be more effective and save you time and money in the long run.

There are concerns regarding the ability of the NHS to meet current demands for ADHD assessments. Patients are often waiting weeks or even months for an appointment, and this can cause significant distress for those suffering. Additionally, many feel that the quality of NHS assessment services isn't as good as it could be.

In light of these problems it's not surprising that more adults are opting to go for an appointment with a private physician. The BBC Panorama investigation raised serious concerns over the quality of care provided by private clinics. The undercover documentary revealed that some clinics were speeding through assessments over the phone and told patients they were suffering from ADHD when, in fact, they did not.


A private assessment usually begins with a series of screening questions that you will be asked to complete and send to the doctor. The screenings are standardised and designed to determine if you exhibit symptoms of ADHD. The results can be used to assist the doctor to decide whether or not you should attend an appointment for a full diagnosis.

The clinician will then assess your medical history and family history as in addition to the impact of ADHD symptoms on your daily life. They will also carry out physical and cognitive tests. You will be diagnosed with ADHD in light of your circumstances and given a treatment program.

If you are diagnosed with ADHD Your doctor will forward documentation to your GP for a shared care agreement. This allows you to continue to receive NHS medications while paying only the NHS prescription fee. You can also visit your private doctor to keep track of appointments and receive CBT therapy, if necessary.

What is the outcome if I don't receive a diagnosis?

In the case of ADHD, a clear diagnosis and treatment plan can make a huge difference. However the NHS procedure for diagnosing ADHD is lengthy and frustrating. Many adults can't wait that long and seek out private specialists to assess their situation. This could save time and frustration, but it's important to realize that this isn't a guarantee of a precise diagnosis.

A professional with experience diagnosing ADHD can provide more detailed evaluations than a psychiatrist from the NHS. This could include a physical examination and tests such as hearing and vision. It will also involve checklists and questionnaires. The person who conducts the test will also inquire about your family history and social and medical history in addition to asking about your symptoms. They could also utilize standard ADHD ratings scales, and may be able to request your teachers or caregivers for ratings, too.

When assessing adults with ADHD the doctor will look for five or more symptoms that have been present for at least six months and are severe enough to interfere in the family or work environment. They will also check whether the symptoms are caused by other mental disorders. For example, depression and anxiety can cause ADHD-like symptoms. They will also review your work and social history to rule out problems such as financial difficulties, an abuse history, and drug or alcohol misuse.

During your NHS assessment you will be informed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare professional if you don't meet the criteria for ADHD. They will also explain why they think you are not and you can request another assessment if you are not satisfied with their decision.

People who receive a diagnosis of ADHD privately can decide to share it with their GP. The GP can then refer the person back for shared management through the NHS. This is the way that some adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD are able to access medication. However, doctors have been recognized as being reluctant to prescribe ADHD medication because they are not experts in the condition and also because it's costly.

What happens if I don't agree with my diagnosis?

It is important to remember that your doctor should be respectful and empathetic to your concerns and feelings. They'll be aware that untreated ADHD can cause major problems for families and individuals. If your clinician doesn't agree with the diagnosis, they may be able to suggest other treatment options or diagnoses that might be more appropriate for you.

If your doctor decides that you don't meet the criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD They will then explain the reason. You may have not provided enough details about your issues or they may think that another disorder is more responsible for your symptoms (traits). If you are not happy with the outcome, you can ask for an alternative opinion from a different clinician or take your case to the NHS complaints procedure.

It is important to remember that your doctor may find the process of assessment frustrating, whether you choose private or NHS care. This is not because of the patients involved, but rather because NHS service delivery is stretched to its limits.

GPs also face challenges in navigating the complex diagnosis process for ADHD and autism (and neurodivergence generally). They must ensure they are offering a robust service that is safe and fair, and also meet the requirements of shared care prescribing that are set by the GMC.

The Panorama expose has exposed that private clinics are using short cut diagnostic techniques and this could put patients at risk. This is a national catastrophe and a valid reason to look at alternative options.

It is also important to remember that the stigma associated with being diagnosed with ADHD can make it difficult for some people receive an assessment. This is particularly true if they are ethnically minorities or were born female or have other health and social situations that could affect the way medical professionals assess the symptoms they have.

We can assist you if feel your life is negatively affected by unmanaged ADHD symptoms. Our clinicians are experienced in diagnosing ADHD and are able to provide support and treatment to address your issues. You can make an appointment via our website or give us call to see how we might be able to assist you.

What is the consequence if I don't want to take medication?

If you are worried about ADHD symptoms but do not wish to use medication, it is possible to receive a diagnosis without a prescription. The NHS provides an adult ADHD assessment service. You can request an appointment from your doctor to be assessed at one of the specialist centres in England or by the 'Right to choose option which is more efficient.

Your appointment will comprise an authenticated 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 what impact they affect your daily routine. The doctor will consider your past experiences and family history. adhd diagnosis adult uk www.iampsychiatry.uk is important that you give truthful and accurate information.

If the clinician determines that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD If they determine that you meet the diagnostic criteria of ADHD, they will provide you with an assessment. You will be asked whether you would like to discuss the possibility of taking a medication. It is crucial to think about the potential consequences of taking any medication before making an informed decision. This is because the effects of medication are long-lasting and could be harmful if taken properly.

The psychiatrist will give you the prescription and a plan should you choose to take medication. You could be prescribed ADHD medication for a long period of time, based on the severity of the symptoms and how long you've experienced them. It is essential to be aware of other options that aren't pharmacological to deal with ADHD symptoms. These include diet, exercise, and cognitive behavior therapy.

The BBC Panorama 'expose' of private clinics that diagnose ADHD has generated much controversy especially because it suggests that people are being misdiagnosed due to inadequate assessment of their clinical needs. We hesitate to say this doesn't happen because humans are inexact creatures, and psychiatry hardly is an academic discipline. If you're suffering from ADHD symptoms, but are frustrated by the NHS waiting times, it might be a good idea to pay for an assessment.