Adult private diagnosis without GP referral?

Hi,

I'm a 28-year-old woman and I strongly believe I have high-functioning Asperger's - I was just wondering if anyone here had successfully obtained a private diagnosis of ASD without having to be referred by a GP? I'm in the North East but there doesn't seem to be anywhere offering this around here.

My reason for seeking a diagnosis is just to put the problems that I've had all my life into context - I'm not seeking any NHS help or any benefits.

I very much doubt I would get a referral from my GP (or any other doctor) as I'm sure it seems that outwardly I am 'coping' - I have a partner and a full-time job, and a range of (fake) social skills that I have been able to mimic from others, but this is all very much an act which is exhausting to perform every day. 

I also fully accept that my Aspergers is not causing me as many problems as it does for others, and this is another reason that I would feel uncomfortable taking up a space on an NHS diagnosis waiting list.

Many thanks in advance for your help :)

(PS - Yes I know I'm extremely lucky to be able to afford a private diagnosis - I'm only able to afford it because I was left a small amount of money when my alcoholic mother (who I believe also had AS) died last year. I'm certainly not rich by any means)

Parents Reply
  • Thanks Elephant, the lady I spoke to at Axia said that I could go to them via the NHS as they are the correct route or something, but she said it would take a lot longer, the GP has to apply for funding etc, my GP is rubbish, its a huge surgery with 20 different locum type doctors who swap and change so you never get to see the same GP twice, I find going to the GP so stressful, I keep meaning to switch to a smaller GP practice in town, but the GP practice I'm at now I have been all my life, and I never get round to it. I would rather just pay and find out more quickly, I am a lady :) I don't know if I am particularly clued up in the differences between male and female ASD, is there anything in particular you would recommend me reading?

Children