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NHS vs. independent diagnosis - what's the difference?

tintal
over 5 years ago

Hi everyone - looking for a bit of advice here.

I have been on the NHS waiting list for an ASD assessment for about 11 months (Scotland). During this time, the opportunity arose to have a free independent assessment through my university. I agreed to that, and was subsequently diagnosed ASD in October. It was based on a 3 hour interview with a clinical psychologist, and I received a 6 page report detailing her opinion, plus some signposting, e.g. details of my local autism charity. 

As far as I know, I'm still sitting on the NHS waiting list. Do you think I still push for an NHS diagnosis even though I've now had an independent consultation? I'm curious if there are any differences between an independent and NHS diagnosis, e.g. in the assessment procedure, or type(s) of support offered. Also I'm not sure if my independent psychology report is valid proof should I ever want to register as disabled / claim anything, etc?

Lastly, I'd also like to know if an NHS assessment can identify a combination of conditions such as ASD, ADHD and dyspraxia. When I met the psychologist, she said there is a possibility I also have dyspraxia, but she wasn't able to make that diagnosis.

Does anyone have any thoughts or experience on this stuff? Any input would be much appreciated,  

Tintal

Parents
  • over 5 years ago

    I had an NHS one (very quick - a few weeks fro referral to diagnosis). I received a half page report and that was the end of it. No support, no help, no recommendations, and been dismissed from their primary care - I assume because I can't be medicated.

  • over 5 years ago in reply to Candlewax

    Mine was quick, around 10 to 12 weeks. I got quite a bit more, and some signposting. Have you talked to your GP?

  • over 5 years ago in reply to Cloudy Mountains

    We've talked about anxiety and depression, but he doesn't want to medicate and keeps giving numbers for the council to sort out help, but they don't answer phones or reply to emails. I've tried several local organisations for support that either want paying (which I can't afford), or simply don't reply to messages/emails.

    I was diagnosed 5 months ago and had zero support.

Reply
  • over 5 years ago in reply to Cloudy Mountains

    We've talked about anxiety and depression, but he doesn't want to medicate and keeps giving numbers for the council to sort out help, but they don't answer phones or reply to emails. I've tried several local organisations for support that either want paying (which I can't afford), or simply don't reply to messages/emails.

    I was diagnosed 5 months ago and had zero support.

Children