The quest for understanding and addressing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has seen a significant surge in recent years. If you’re in the UK and suspect you or your child might have ADHD, you’re likely navigating a landscape of information, seeking clarity on diagnosis and treatment pathways. One term that’s probably high on your search list is Private Adhd Diagnosis Uk Cost. This article delves into the rising demand for ADHD assessments, the often lengthy NHS waiting times, and crucially, the financial implications of opting for a private ADHD diagnosis in the UK.
The data unequivocally shows a dramatic increase in interest in ADHD assessment. Google search trends over the last decade illustrate this point vividly. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, searches for “ADHD assessment” were steadily climbing in the UK. However, the pandemic acted as a catalyst, accelerating this trend, and interest has remained high even after the lifting of restrictions.
Line chart showing the increase in people searching for ADHD assessment in Google in the past 10 years
A line graph illustrating the substantial growth in Google searches for ADHD assessment in the UK over the past decade, highlighting the increasing public interest in seeking diagnosis.
Google Keyword Planner data reveals that at its peak in April 2024, the term “ADHD assessment” alone was searched approximately 12,000 times. When you factor in related terms like “ADHD testing” or “ADHD diagnosis,” the total search volume balloons to around 100,000 searches. This staggering figure underscores the immense demand for ADHD-related services and information.
Decoding the Drivers Behind the ADHD Assessment Demand Surge
The escalating interest in ADHD assessment isn’t attributable to a single cause. Instead, it’s a confluence of factors that have collectively raised awareness and prompted more individuals to seek evaluation. These factors include:
- Heightened Public Awareness of Neurodiversity: Society’s understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent conditions like ADHD have grown significantly. Increased media coverage, celebrity endorsements, and public campaigns have contributed to greater awareness and reduced stigma.
- “Unmasking” of Symptoms During Lockdowns: The unique circumstances of lockdowns, school closures, and the shift to working from home inadvertently brought ADHD symptoms into sharper focus for many. The disruption of routines and familiar structures highlighted challenges that may have been previously masked by the demands of daily life.
- Charity Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: Dedicated charities and organizations have played a vital role in building public awareness about ADHD. Their tireless efforts to provide information, support, and advocate for better services have empowered individuals to recognize ADHD traits in themselves or their children.
- Social Media’s Amplifying Effect: Social media platforms have become powerful tools for sharing personal experiences and information about ADHD. Individuals openly discussing their ADHD journeys have created a sense of community and encouraged others to explore the possibility of diagnosis.
Richard Low, a certified Advanced ADHD coach from ADHDcoaching.org, offers further insight into the impact of changing work environments:
“The shift to ‘Work from Home’ during and after the pandemic, while offering flexibility, presented unforeseen challenges for many adults with ADHD. The absence of a structured daily routine, reduced personal interaction, and diminished sense of accountability often amplified ADHD symptoms that may have been less noticeable in a traditional office setting.”
This combination of increased awareness and changed circumstances has undeniably propelled the demand for ADHD assessments to unprecedented levels. Unfortunately, this surge has placed immense pressure on the NHS, leading to substantial waiting times.
Navigating the NHS Waiting Times for ADHD Assessment
Currently, there’s a lack of comprehensive national data on referral rates and waiting times specifically for ADHD assessments within the NHS. While some experimental data exists for autism assessments, it’s incomplete and doesn’t encompass all diagnostic pathways.
The absence of clear NHS ADHD waiting time data prompted the Petitions Committee to conduct an online survey in early 2023. This survey sought to gather firsthand accounts of people’s experiences with ADHD and autism assessments.
The survey findings painted a stark picture for those awaiting NHS ADHD assessments:
- 27% had already been waiting for 1 to 6 months.
- 26% faced waits of 6 months to 1 year.
- A significant 24% had been waiting between 1 and 2 years.
- A concerning 10% had endured waits of 2 to 3 years.
The survey also highlighted that the majority of individuals who had received an ADHD assessment through the NHS had waited for over a year. In fact, a larger proportion (48%) of diagnosed individuals had pursued private assessment, with only 35% receiving their diagnosis via the NHS.
BBC Investigation Exposes Lengthy NHS Waits
In July 2024, the BBC published an investigative article shedding light on the extensive waiting list backlogs within NHS ADHD assessment services across the UK. Their report suggested that in many regions, it could take up to eight years to clear the current backlog.
Through Freedom of Information requests submitted to NHS trusts and health boards, the BBC uncovered that a staggering 177,404 individuals were on waiting lists for ADHD assessments. In contrast, only 21,011 assessments were conducted throughout 2023.
This significant disparity between demand and capacity within the NHS is understandably pushing individuals to explore private options for quicker assessment and treatment. For many, understanding the private ADHD diagnosis UK cost becomes a crucial factor in their decision-making process.
Understanding the Landscape of Private ADHD Diagnosis Costs
In June 2024, myTribe researchers undertook a comprehensive survey of 401 private ADHD clinics across the UK to determine the typical costs associated with private assessment and follow-up consultations.
Key Findings from myTribe ADHD Cost Research
- Average Private ADHD Assessment Cost: The research revealed that the average cost for a private ADHD assessment was £1,267. Adult assessments averaged £1,200, while assessments for children were slightly higher at £1,361.
- Average Follow-up Consultation Cost: The average cost for a follow-up consultation was £173.
- Assessment Modality: 55% of clinics offered both in-person and online assessments, 33% provided in-person assessments only, and 12% operated exclusively online.
- In-Person Assessment Premium: In-person assessments tended to be slightly more expensive, carrying an approximate 9% premium compared to online assessments.
- Regional Cost Variations: The cost of both ADHD assessments and follow-up consultations varied across different regions of the UK.
It’s crucial to remember that the initial assessment cost is just one component of the overall financial commitment. Considering the potential need for ongoing treatment is equally important.
The Importance of Factoring in Treatment Costs
While a diagnosis of ADHD isn’t guaranteed following an assessment, it’s essential to consider the potential costs of treatment alongside the assessment fee. In most instances, a private diagnosis necessitates initiating treatment within the private sector, at least initially, before exploring options for transitioning back to NHS care. In reality, some individuals find it challenging to return to NHS services and may need to continue private treatment long-term.
Common ADHD Treatment Options
The NHS outlines several treatment approaches for ADHD, typically advocating for a combination of medication and therapy. The most common treatment options include:
- Medication: Medications designed to improve concentration, reduce impulsivity, and promote calmer behavior.
- Therapy: Various therapeutic interventions such as psychoeducation, behavior therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and ADHD coaching.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Recommendations for a healthy, balanced diet and potential consideration of supplements.
Navigating Medication Titration and Shared Care Agreements
If medication is recommended and agreed upon following a private ADHD diagnosis, the typical pathway involves “titration” under the care of the private psychiatrist.
myTribe Jargon Buster
Titration
Titration is the carefully managed process of determining the optimal medication dosage for an individual. It involves regular monitoring and follow-up consultations to adjust the dosage for maximum effectiveness and minimal side effects.
Shared Care Agreement
A Shared Care Agreement is a formal agreement established between the patient, their NHS GP, and their private psychiatrist. This agreement allows for the shared responsibility of prescribing and monitoring medication, potentially enabling patients to transition medication management back to their GP after stabilization.
The duration of the titration process varies from person to person, but it often takes a minimum of three to six months to find a stable and effective medication dose. Only after successful titration can individuals explore the possibility of a shared care agreement with their NHS GP, which could potentially reduce the ongoing cost of medication management.
Considering that the average private follow-up consultation costs £173, in addition to private prescription charges ranging from £25 to £125 (depending on the medication), the additional expenses beyond the initial assessment can quickly accumulate. It’s not uncommon to spend an additional £1,000 to £1,500 on titration and initial medication costs, even before factoring in any talking therapies or coaching.
Regional Breakdown of Private ADHD Assessment and Follow-up Costs
To provide a clearer picture of the private ADHD diagnosis UK cost landscape, the table below details the average expenses for assessment and follow-up consultations across different regions of the UK.
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
myTribe Analysis of Regional Cost Variations
Interestingly, London is not the most expensive region for ADHD assessments, with several other areas exhibiting higher average costs. However, follow-up consultation costs in London are significantly higher, exceeding the national average by over 20%. This indicates that while initial assessment costs might be comparable, ongoing treatment in London could become considerably more expensive due to higher consultation fees.
The East of England emerged as the most expensive region for private ADHD assessments, with average costs of £1,351 for adults and £1,510 for children.
Another notable finding was that Scotland displayed the second-highest fees for adult ADHD assessments, coupled with above-average follow-up consultation costs. This is somewhat surprising as Scotland generally tends to be less expensive for other types of private medical treatments compared to other parts of the UK. However, this trend does not extend to private ADHD services.
Exploring Payment Options for Private ADHD Assessment
Understanding the private ADHD diagnosis UK cost is only part of the equation. Exploring available payment options is equally crucial. Here are some potential avenues to consider:
1. Right to Choose
The NHS “Right to Choose” scheme grants patients the legal right to select their healthcare provider for referrals, provided the chosen provider delivers NHS services and doesn’t exceed NHS costs. Therefore, if you can identify a private ADHD assessment service that meets these criteria, it may be possible to be referred to them, with the NHS covering the costs. However, finding eligible private ADHD services under the Right to Choose can sometimes be challenging.
2. Self-Pay
For most individuals pursuing private ADHD assessment, self-payment is the most common route. While Right to Choose may be an option for some, the limited availability of qualifying services often leaves self-pay as the primary choice.
3. Personal Finance Options
If neither Right to Choose nor immediate self-payment is feasible, personal finance options, such as personal loans, could be considered to spread the cost. However, it’s imperative to ensure that loan repayments are genuinely affordable before committing to this option.
Considering Additional Treatment Costs Beyond Assessment
The cost research primarily focused on initial assessment and medication-based treatment. However, as previously mentioned, other beneficial treatment modalities, like therapy and coaching, exist.
ADHD coach Richard Low emphasizes, “While medication can be transformative for many, some individuals may experience side effects that outweigh the benefits. For these individuals, alternative support avenues like ADHD coaching and solution-focused therapies can be invaluable.”
Richard also points out that adults with an ADHD diagnosis seeking coaching support may be eligible to apply for the UK Government’s “Access to Work” scheme. This scheme can provide financial assistance to cover part or all of the costs associated with ADHD coaching and workplace support.
Private ADHD Assessment Waiting Times: A Comparative Advantage
Alongside cost considerations, waiting times are a significant factor for individuals considering private ADHD assessment. The myTribe research also investigated private sector waiting times, revealing a nationwide average of just 43 days.
The interactive graphic below illustrates the average waiting times for private assessments across different UK regions.
Scotland exhibited the longest private waiting times, averaging 71 days, followed by the East Midlands at 61 days.
Wales demonstrated the shortest waiting times, with an average of only 25 days for a private assessment.
Supply and Demand Dynamics in Scotland: Impact on Costs?
BBC research indicated that NHS trusts and health boards in Scotland faced a backlog of 4,664 individuals awaiting ADHD assessments, with only 474 assessments conducted in 2023. Extrapolating these figures suggests it could take nearly a decade (9.8 years) to clear the existing backlog at the current assessment rate.
As evidenced by the myTribe research, Scotland also has the longest waiting times for private assessments and the second-highest assessment costs in the UK. This correlation suggests that high demand for private ADHD services in Scotland may be driving up both waiting times and prices.
Potential Risks Associated with Private ADHD Diagnosis
While private ADHD services offer clear advantages in terms of speed and accessibility, it’s crucial to acknowledge potential risks.
The upfront private ADHD diagnosis UK cost, encompassing assessment, follow-up consultations, private prescriptions, and potential therapy, can be substantial. Many individuals hope to transition back to NHS care after initial private assessment and titration. However, securing a shared care agreement with an NHS GP can be challenging, and refusal is a significant risk.
A 2024 ADHD UK survey highlighted regional variations in GP acceptance of shared care agreements. Wales had the lowest acceptance rate, with only 19% of shared care agreements being accepted by GP practices, compared to 29% in Scotland, 38% in Northern Ireland, and 58% in England.
Consequences of Shared Care Agreement Refusal
NHS GPs have the right to decline shared care agreements if they feel uncomfortable with the associated responsibilities or lack sufficient clinical experience.
If a shared care agreement is refused, individuals diagnosed privately face the ongoing expense of private prescriptions and psychiatrist fees (typically around £40 per prescription) or attempting to secure an NHS referral to their local ADHD service, if available.
ADHDAdultUK, a charity supporting adults with ADHD, provides recommendations for navigating shared care agreement refusals, including:
- Discussing the impact of medication discontinuation with your GP.
- Requesting an NHS referral and exploring interim shared care while waiting for NHS assessment.
- Considering changing GP practices if difficulties persist.
Detailed recommendations are available on the ADHDAdultUK website.
The Value of GP Consultation Before Pursuing Private Diagnosis
While a GP referral isn’t mandatory for private ADHD assessment, consulting your GP beforehand is advisable. Your GP can offer valuable advice and insights into their practice’s typical stance on shared care agreements. Understanding your GP’s likely position on shared care from the outset can inform your decision-making process and potentially prompt you to consider changing GP practices proactively if necessary.
Seeking Further Information
For comprehensive information about ADHD diagnosis and treatment, please refer to the following resources:
NHS ADHD Information
ADHD UK
ADHD Foundation
ADHD Adult UK
Navigating the path to ADHD diagnosis and treatment requires careful consideration of various factors, including private ADHD diagnosis UK cost, waiting times, and potential challenges. By being well-informed and proactive, you can make the best decisions for your individual circumstances.
