The Plymouth Adult ADHD Assessment Service offers diagnostic assessment and medical treatment for adults with ADHD.
ADHD is a developmental disorder associated with an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. The symptoms of ADHD can interfere significantly with an individual’s daily activities and relationships. ADHD begins in childhood and can continue into the teen years and adulthood.
ADHD is increasingly being diagnosed among adults struggling to fulfill their potential in employment and education settings, as the symptoms in childhood may have been masked by good family structures and school support. People with ADHD often struggle in their personal lives and can experience difficulties in relationships with friends, colleagues, and family. ADHD is inheritable, which means this health condition can be passed through adults to their children through their genes.
ADHD can affect a person’s sense of self-worth, cause suffering due to its symptoms, and influence relationships, behaviour, and social interactions. People with ADHD often have complex needs and may also experience other mental health difficulties including mood disorders, anxiety, and substance misuse. Following an ADHD assessment, it is not uncommon for people to be signposted to services that offer support for coexisting mental health problems.
To be referred to our service people must be 18 years of age and older, hold a Plymouth address, and be registered with a Plymouth-based GP, including satellite surgeries. The main route for referrals to the Adult ADHD Assessment Service is from General Practitioners and secondary mental health services. We do not accept self-referrals.
The demand for ADHD assessments has surged recently, leading to significantly long waiting times for appointments.
We do not offer peer support groups or skills groups. We do not offer psychological interventions for the treatment of ADHD in our clinic.
Your assessment:
Your assessment is usually carried out over a video call and lasts between two and three hours to help us fully understand your difficulties. If you feel a face-to-face appointment is needed, we can discuss your requirements.
It is helpful to bring along a relative, friend, or someone who knows you well to provide more information about your difficulties. They can also support you during the assessment, which will involve gaining information about your background.
If you have previously been diagnosed with ADHD and are currently taking medication for the condition, your appointment may be shorter.
Following the assessment, a report will be sent to you and your GP. If a diagnosis is made, we can offer medical treatment and signposting.
Right to Choose (RTC) – Important Information
The Plymouth Adult ADHD Assessment Service is unable to provide individual advice regarding the NHS “Right to Choose” (RTC) process. We strongly recommend that individuals speak directly with their GP if they wish to explore this option.
Due to the volume of enquiries received, we are providing the following general information, which is publicly available online:
NHS “Right to Choose” (RTC) in Devon is not currently on hold; however, it is operating with notable restrictions due to increased demand.
Current position in Devon
Referrals remain possible, and patients may still be referred by their GP to an appropriate RTC provider.
However, NHS Devon Integrated Care Board (ICB), along with some providers, has introduced funding and capacity limits. For example, certain providers may have agreed caps on the number of assessments they can undertake.
As a result, waiting times are significantly longer than those typically advertised. Current estimates suggest waits may range from approximately 14 weeks up to 52 weeks or longer.
In addition, some RTC providers may periodically pause accepting new NHS referrals depending on local ICB commissioning arrangements.
We recommend discussing your individual circumstances with your GP, who will be able to provide the most up-to-date guidance and support with referral options.
The Plymouth Adult ADHD Assessment Service is testing a new computer tool called Anathem for six months. Anathem helps staff with paperwork, such as writing notes.
It does not make decisions about your diagnosis.
If you agree, Anathem will write down (transcribe) what is said during your appointment.This helps staff focus more on you and less on typing. The information is stored safely and follows NHS rules. After 30 days, the recordings are deleted from Anathem. The written notes are kept in your medical record.
We will always ask for your permission before using Anathem. You can say no or change your mind at any time. If you choose not to take part, your appointment will continue as normal.
This will not affect your care.
Additional Information
Contact
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01752 435452 – this is an answerphone service
Useful Links
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