Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Assessment

All neurodevelopmental assessments are multidisciplinary using NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance. If an assessment is undertaken, it may not always result in an ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) diagnosis. The assessment process may indicate other needs which will be discussed and if required, further assessment, referral or signposting to other services may be considered.

Steps For The Assessment

1) Information gathering - Before the first appointment, a Conners questionnaire will be sent to school, parents and the child (8-16 years old) - this is sent to the school to support the child to complete.

2) First appointment (Parent/Carer and Child) - a detailed neurodevelopmental history will be taken along with a clinical assessment. This will include height, weight, blood pressure and clinical examination.

3) Qb Test - The Qb test is a diagnostic screening tool which provides objective information to help in the assessment of ADHD/ADD. It is a computer based assessment that combines attention and impulse control measurements with activity recordings collected by an infrared camera. The results are compared with a group of children of the same age and gender who do not have ADHD.

4) Multidisciplinary team meeting (Professionals) - The team meet to discuss the findings of the assessment and come to an outcome.

5) Feedback appointment (Parent/Carer and Child) - At this appointment, the outcome of the assessment will be discussed. If a diagnosis of ADHD is confirmed a management strategy will be discussed including information about ADHD medication.

6) Follow up Appointment (Parent/Carer and Child) - Trial of medication if so required. Some children will require an ECG prior to a trial of medication, due to family or clinical history. This can arrange by Cheshire Nuerdevolopmental Diagnostics (with an additional fee) or may be arranged by your GP (although there is no obligation for your NHS GP to provide this service.)

7) Regular Follow up Appointments - If your child is commenced on ADHD medication, a regular follow up is required every 6 weeks initially and once stable every 3 months, if the child is under 10 years, or every 6 months if the child is over 10 years. Most NHS GP’s will not provide prescriptions and these will be provided by Cheshire Nuerodevolopmental Diagnostics.

Private Medication Costs

Payment for private medication dispensed can vary dependent on medication and dose.

Examples of cost (BNF - June 2023)

  • Methylphenidate £3.03 - £54.60

  • Concerta XL £31.19 - £127.35

  • Lisdexamphetamine £58.24 - £83.16

  • Atomoxetine. £15.17 - £23.14

  • Guanfacine MR £56.00 - £76.16

A detailed report will be provided to parents/carers and will be copied, with consent to professionals such as your GP and SENCO at school. The report will be sent by recorded delivery and a copy will be sent to parents/carers by secure email if required