The demand for ADHD assessments has surged in recent years, mirroring a growing awareness and understanding of neurodiversity. If you’re considering seeking an ADHD diagnosis, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is about the cost, especially if you’re looking at private options for a quicker route to assessment. This article breaks down the expenses associated with a private ADHD diagnosis in the UK, helping you understand what to expect financially.
Line chart showing the increase in people searching for ADHD assessment in Google in the past 10 years
Recent data highlights a significant increase in individuals searching for “ADHD assessment” and related terms online. Google search trends in the UK show a steady climb over the past decade, with a notable acceleration since the pandemic. Keywords like “ADHD assessment,” “ADHD testing,” and “ADHD diagnosis” collectively reached approximately 100,000 searches at peak interest in April 2024, according to Google Keyword Planner. This surge underscores the heightened need for ADHD services and the growing number of people exploring their options.
Several factors contribute to this increased demand for ADHD assessments:
- Greater Public Awareness: Neurodiversity is becoming more widely understood and accepted, leading to increased recognition of conditions like ADHD.
- “Unmasking” During Lockdowns: Changes in routines due to lockdowns and remote work environments brought ADHD symptoms into sharper focus for many individuals.
- Advocacy by Charities: Organizations dedicated to raising awareness about ADHD have played a crucial role in informing the public.
- Social Media Influence: Personal stories and experiences shared on social media platforms have helped destigmatize ADHD and encourage others to seek assessments.
Richard Low, a certified Advanced ADHD coach from ADHDcoaching.org, points out the impact of remote work:
“The shift to ‘Work from Home’ during and post-pandemic disrupted daily routines and reduced personal connection and accountability, which amplified ADHD symptoms that might have been less noticeable in a traditional office setting.”
This increased awareness and demand have unfortunately led to substantial waiting times within the National Health Service (NHS) for ADHD assessments, prompting many to consider the private sector for faster evaluations.
The Cost of Private ADHD Assessment: Initial Fees
When considering a private ADHD diagnosis, the initial assessment cost is a primary concern. Research conducted in June 2024 by myTribe, surveying 401 private ADHD clinics across the UK, provides a clear picture of these expenses:
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Average Private ADHD Assessment Cost: £1,267
- Adult Assessment Average: £1,200
- Child Assessment Average: £1,361
These figures represent the average cost for the initial diagnostic assessment. It’s important to note that these are just averages, and prices can vary based on location, the clinic, and whether the assessment is conducted in-person or online. In-person assessments tend to be slightly more expensive, carrying approximately a 9% premium compared to online evaluations.
Regional Variations in Assessment Costs
The cost of a private ADHD assessment isn’t uniform across the UK. Prices fluctuate depending on the region. Here’s a breakdown of average assessment costs and follow-up consultation fees by region:
Cost of private ADHD assessment and follow-up by region of the UK Comparison of costs for adult and child ADHD assessments, and average follow-up costs across different regions of the UK.
| Region | Adult ADHD assessment | Child ADHD assessment | Average follow-up cost (30 minutes) |
|—|—|—|—|
| East Midlands | £1,240 | £1,373 | £126 |
| East of England | £1,331 | £1,510 | £159 |
| London | £1,202 | £1,419 | £214 |
| North East | £1,119 | £1,374 | £131 |
| North West | £1,159 | £1,259 | £179 |
| South East | £1,260 | £1,419 | £154 |
| South West | £1,202 | £1,256 | £150 |
| West Midlands | £1,191 | £1,271 | £173 |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | £1,289 | £1,525 | £166 |
| Scotland | £1,320 | £1,357 | £147 |
| Wales | £1,275 | £1,307 | £178 |
| Northern Ireland | £936 | £993 | £116 |
| Overall average | £1,200 | £1,361 | £173 |
SOURCE: myTribe 2024
Interestingly, London, often perceived as the most expensive region, is not the priciest for ADHD assessments. Several other regions, such as the East of England and Yorkshire and the Humber, show higher average assessment costs. However, London does have the highest average cost for follow-up consultations, which can significantly impact the overall expense if ongoing treatment is required.
Beyond the Initial Assessment: Follow-up and Treatment Costs
The cost of an ADHD diagnosis extends beyond the initial assessment. If diagnosed with ADHD, follow-up consultations and treatment are typically necessary, adding to the overall financial commitment.
- Average Follow-up Consultation Cost: £173 (for a 30-minute session)
This is an average figure, and as seen in the regional breakdown, follow-up costs also vary across the UK. London, for example, has an average follow-up cost significantly higher than the national average.
Furthermore, treatment for ADHD often involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
- Medication Costs: If medication is prescribed, you’ll need to factor in the cost of private prescriptions. These can range from £25 to £125 per prescription, depending on the specific medication.
- Titration Costs: Starting ADHD medication privately usually requires a titration period, where the dosage is carefully adjusted under the psychiatrist’s supervision. This process typically involves regular follow-up consultations over several months (often 3-6 months minimum) and contributes significantly to the overall cost.
As myTribe’s research indicates, you could easily spend an additional £1,000 to £1,500 on follow-up consultations and prescription costs during the titration phase, on top of the initial assessment fee. This figure excludes the costs of other potential therapies or coaching.
Options for Paying for a Private ADHD Diagnosis
Understanding the costs is crucial, and so is exploring ways to manage these expenses. Here are a few potential avenues to consider for financing a private ADHD assessment and treatment:
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Right to Choose: In the UK, the “Right to Choose” allows NHS patients to select their healthcare provider, including private services, under certain conditions. If you can find a private ADHD assessment provider that offers services to the NHS at NHS rates, you might be able to get referred and have the NHS cover the costs. However, finding such providers can be challenging.
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Self-Pay: The most common method for accessing private ADHD assessments is self-payment. This involves directly paying for the assessment and subsequent treatment costs out-of-pocket.
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Personal Finance: For some, personal loans can be a way to spread the cost of a private ADHD diagnosis and treatment over time. However, it’s essential to ensure that loan repayments are manageable within your budget.
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NHS Shared Care Agreement (Potential Future Cost Reduction): After initiating treatment privately, some individuals hope to transfer their medication prescribing back to their NHS GP under a Shared Care Agreement. This agreement allows the GP to take over prescribing and monitoring, potentially reducing ongoing private medication costs. However, it’s crucial to understand that GPs are not obligated to accept Shared Care Agreements. Refusal rates vary across the UK, with Wales showing particularly low acceptance rates in a 2024 ADHD UK survey. If a Shared Care Agreement is refused, you’ll likely need to continue paying for private prescriptions and psychiatrist appointments to manage your medication.
Waiting Times for Private ADHD Assessment vs. NHS
While cost is a significant factor, the quicker access to assessment is a major driver for choosing private ADHD services. Private waiting times are considerably shorter than those in the NHS. Research indicates that the average waiting time for a private ADHD assessment in the UK is approximately 43 days. However, this also varies regionally, with Scotland having the longest average wait (71 days) and Wales the shortest (25 days).
In contrast, NHS waiting times for ADHD assessments can be extensive, often exceeding a year or even multiple years. Data is limited, but a 2023 survey by The Petitions Committee revealed that many individuals waited over a year for an NHS ADHD assessment. BBC research in July 2024 highlighted NHS waiting list backlogs that could take up to eight years to clear in some areas.
The significantly shorter waiting times in the private sector are a compelling advantage for those seeking a timely diagnosis and access to treatment.
Risks and Considerations of Private ADHD Diagnosis: Shared Care Challenges
While private ADHD assessments offer faster access, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks, primarily related to ongoing costs and the uncertainty of NHS Shared Care Agreements.
The financial commitment of private ADHD care can be substantial, encompassing assessment fees, follow-up consultations, medication, and potential therapies. The expectation of transitioning to NHS Shared Care to reduce long-term medication costs can be undermined if a GP refuses to enter into such an agreement. This can lead to continued private costs, making long-term financial planning crucial.
If your GP refuses a Shared Care Agreement, you may face the choice of:
- Continuing to pay for private prescriptions and psychiatrist appointments.
- Seeking an NHS referral for assessment, potentially facing lengthy waiting times while still needing ongoing medication management.
- Changing GPs in hopes of finding one more willing to accept Shared Care Agreements.
It’s advisable to discuss Shared Care Agreements with your GP before pursuing a private ADHD assessment. Understanding your GP’s practice policy on Shared Care can inform your decision-making process and help you prepare for potential long-term costs.
Getting Started: Talk to Your GP
Even though a GP referral isn’t mandatory for private ADHD assessments, initiating a conversation with your GP is a valuable first step. They can provide advice, discuss local NHS pathways, and clarify their practice’s stance on Shared Care Agreements. This initial discussion can empower you to make informed decisions about your ADHD assessment journey, whether you choose to pursue the NHS route, explore private options, or a combination of both.
For further information on ADHD diagnosis and treatment, you can explore resources from reputable organizations such as:
- NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/
- ADHD UK: https://adhduk.co.uk/
- ADHD Foundation: https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/
