Why Some Adults Turn to Private ADHD Assessments
NHS waiting lists for adult ADHD assessments can stretch from 18 months to more than eight years, depending on your area. It’s no surprise that many people look to private providers for a quicker route to diagnosis, medication titration, and workplace accommodations. Still, going private is a major financial and medical decision, so it pays to be well-informed.
Tip: Before you part with any cash, ask your GP whether you qualify for an NHS “Right to Choose” referral. Under this scheme, the NHS funds an assessment by an approved independent provider such as Psychiatry-UK, although demand now means 7-10 months between assessment and titration.
How to Find a Reputable Private ADHD Clinic (Step by Step)
- Verify regulation: Choose clinics regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and check their latest inspection rating.
- Confirm clinician credentials: Psychiatrists should be on the GMC’s specialist register for adult psychiatry and have documented ADHD expertise.
- Look for multidisciplinary input: Gold-standard assessments draw on childhood history, neurodevelopmental questionnaires, and (where available) reports from family, school, or workplace.
- Read balanced reviews: Dig beyond clinic websites—forums like r/ADHDUK on Reddit or HealthUnlocked often reveal the day-to-day realities.
- Ask your GP or local ADHD charity: They may know which private services integrate smoothly with NHS shared-care agreements.
Understanding the Costs of a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Full assessments in the UK typically cost £500 – £1,500. Follow-up titration and annual reviews can add several hundred pounds per year. To keep expenses manageable:
- Get an itemised quote: Clarify what is (and isn’t) included—diagnostic interview, physical exam, prescribing, and follow-up letters.
- Check private health insurance: Some policies cover neurodevelopmental assessments, but pre-authorisation is essential.
- Request payment plans: Many clinics allow instalments over 3-12 months; read the small print for interest or admin fees.
- Explore high-quality online providers: Remote assessments can shave 10–20 % off the price, but standards must match face-to-face care (e.g. camera-on identity checks, validated rating scales).
Red Flags and Pitfalls to Watch For
- “Guaranteed” same-day diagnosis: Thorough assessments usually span at least two hours and may require collateral evidence. Be wary of one-size-fits-all packages.
- Over-diagnosis pressure: Some unscrupulous services may lean toward a positive diagnosis to keep business flowing. Ask about their rate of non-ADHD findings.
- Poor medication follow-up: Safe stimulant prescribing demands ECG checks (if indicated), blood pressure monitoring, and dosage reviews. Insist on a clear titration plan.
- No NHS shared-care pathway: Without a signed agreement your GP may refuse to issue NHS prescriptions, leaving you locked into private fees.
Preparing for Your Assessment
Maximise the value of your appointment by gathering:
- School reports or childhood records (if available).
- Completed self-report scales (e.g. ASRS, DIVA 2.0).
- Brief written observations from a partner, friend, or family member.
- A timeline of key life events showing how symptoms affected study, work, and relationships.
- Any previous mental-health diagnoses or medication history.
Take-Home Message
Going private can fast-track an ADHD diagnosis—but it isn’t a shortcut you should take lightly. Stick to CQC-registered clinics, double-check clinician credentials, and plan for long-term prescription costs. If funds are tight, explore the NHS Right to Choose route first. Above all, remember that a quality assessment is collaborative: it should leave you feeling heard, informed, and empowered to manage ADHD in a neurotypical world.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional about your personal circumstances.
