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Can you relate? Or am I just that different?

NAS16464

UPDATE: 13.07.17

Following on from my initial post on the 22nd June 2017:

community.autism.org.uk/.../can-you-relate-or-am-i-just-that-different

I received a second referral letter from my GP. I have opted to go private and though controversial my GP agreed with my choice. He said to use a Psychologist and not Psychiatrist and ones that are established, reputable, registered and quite possibly working in their own practice, as there is a great difference in price. Being someone who does not take things at face value, I called around and yes, the price difference was startling. The first phone call to a private practice, where I would be seen by a Psychiatrist would cost me £900.00. That was the general cost for the second and third call (£850-900). I then called several Psychologists and the highest quote for the initial consultation was £175.00 with a follow up if still required, £150.00; with some, with payment plans that will split the cost. 

I booked an appointment for August with a Psychologist and will update on the outcome of that meeting. 

Parents

  • To be honest I'm not entirely sure if being seen by a psychologist or psychiatrist will affect your diagnosis outcome? Aren't they essentially the same thing? If they are, then by all means go for the cheaper option.
    Either way, if you want to be seen as soon as possible (& you can afford it), then it's definitely best to pay for an assessment. I had to wait over a year just for an appointment with the NHS system, & in that entire year I felt like I was loosing my mind with stress!

    I can honestly say if I had the money, I would have just paid for an assessment. Bit of warning though, I don't know how they do it in private practises, but when I went for my assessments, I had to go to more than one appointment (they don't just meet you once & make a declaration, it's usually a bit of a long process), so maybe take that into consideration as far as bills are concerned, will they need to do more than one assessment & charge you for each? etc.

  • in reply to Autistic Introvert

    Thank you so much for your response it is truly welcomed.

    Yes, you are correct in stating that it could result in several appointments. The practice I chose to have my assessment with has an initial meeting and one follow up and then the results go to the GP. But, yes making sure that you understand the process and the number and cost of follow up appointments needs to be taken into consideration. 

    You are also correct in your experience of the NHS waiting time, my GP quoted a time frame of between 12-18 months. 

    Thank you again.

Reply
  • in reply to Autistic Introvert

    Thank you so much for your response it is truly welcomed.

    Yes, you are correct in stating that it could result in several appointments. The practice I chose to have my assessment with has an initial meeting and one follow up and then the results go to the GP. But, yes making sure that you understand the process and the number and cost of follow up appointments needs to be taken into consideration. 

    You are also correct in your experience of the NHS waiting time, my GP quoted a time frame of between 12-18 months. 

    Thank you again.

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