Published on 12, July, 2020
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
If I had gone via NHS I was having to persuade the GP that I needed the assessment...he thought that because I am married and have kids that I am doing ok in life...never mind that I can't work out how to find and keep a job. And then the NHS wait in my area is 3yrs.
So I looked into a private assessment. The place I chose needed me to be referred by the GP so that it could be put on my NHS notes as an NHS diagnosis...and the assessment was done by an NHS psychiatrist who also works in a private clinic. This also meant it was a lot cheaper than many I have heard of.
Going privately only took 12 weeks from referal to appt. I had to fill in some questionnaires and send back before appt. As did my mum. The assessment was 3hrs long and in the form of a discussion/informal interview. She said they are not usually the full 3hrs but my husband was able to contribute loads of info for her so it was very thorough. I was given verbal diagnosis of ASD Aspergers on the day. I am still waitig for my written report because of xmas delays and admin sickness!