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Some people spend years suspecting they may have ADHD and always have this thought at the back of their mind. For others, the idea that they have ADHD is a more recent consideration. Whether the possibility that you may have ADHD is a new thought or one that you have spent years considering, now may feel like the right time to seek a diagnosis.
Being diagnosed with ADHD can feel completely life-changing. You may find that lots of your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings suddenly make more sense. If you have spent years feeling different but always felt unsure why, an ADHD diagnosis can feel especially validating. People seek an ADHD diagnosis for different reasons. But no matter why you are seeking a diagnosis, it’s vital that the assessment process is carried out properly.
Due to long NHS waiting lists, many people choose to have private ADHD assessments. So, how do you choose a reputable clinic to get an ADHD private diagnosis? Here are some tips to help you during your search:
Check the Clinic is Regulated
One of the first things you need to do is to ensure that the clinic is reputable. A simple way to check this is to ensure that the clinic is regulated and inspected by relevant professional bodies. For example, has the clinic been inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)? What rating did it receive during the inspection? Checking that the clinic is regulated and checking its rating is a must before you contact the clinic for your assessment, and certainly before you pay any money or provide personal information.
Look for Transparent Pricing
Your diagnosis is far more important than money. However, it’s still crucial to be clear on how much your assessment will cost you. Unscrupulous clinics may charge you lots of hidden costs at a time when you feel more vulnerable. So, checking what is included in the price of your assessment and any follow-ups is a must to avoid being overcharged. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about pricing before you schedule your assessment.
Confirm Ongoing Support
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis and then being left to process the information without any further support can be damaging. Once you receive your diagnosis, you will want to ensure that you’re clear about your next steps, treatment options available to you, and where to find further guidance. Checking that you will receive a copy of the full assessment and diagnosis report, and that your GP will receive it, is important. Having this information will make it easier for you to get ongoing support.
Read Patient Testimonials
One final way to choose the best ADHD clinic for your assessment is to read through testimonials from current and past patients. Understanding how past patients found the assessment process and support after diagnosis is extremely helpful. Reading through genuine reviews will help you make an informed decision about the clinic. Based on this information, you can then decide whether you’re happy to schedule your assessment.
*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.