Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about ADHD assessments, referrals, or how the process works? You’re in the right place. When you are considering an ADHD diagnosis there may be questions you have about the process. Click through our frequently asked questions below to find the answers.
Can I complete the entire process remotely?
Yes. All parts of the assessment, diagnosis, and follow-up care are delivered remotely via secure video consultations. You can access the service from the comfort of your home.
Can you issue prescriptions remotely?
Yes. Prescriptions can be sent to your local pharmacy or delivered to your home, depending on your location and preference.
Do I need blood tests or an ECG before starting ADHD medication?
Not routinely. Blood tests or ECGs are only required if there are specific concerns, such as:
- A personal or family history of heart problems (e.g. sudden cardiac death, structural heart disease)
- Symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, or fainting
- Abnormal findings during your initial assessment (e.g. irregular pulse or heart murmur)
In these cases, we may recommend further investigations before starting treatment.
Do you assess and treat children?
No. At this time, our service is for adults only (18+). If you are seeking an assessment for a child, we recommend contacting your GP or a service that specialises in CAMHS ADHD care.
Is your service covered by the NHS?
We are contracted by the NHS through ‘Right to Choose’ (RTC), so yes any referral to our service is covered by the NHS and therefore free. We can also support shared care arrangements with your NHS GP if they agree to prescribe ADHD medication based on our specialist recommendations.
Sharing Information with Informants
If you consent, we may use their contact information to:
- Send appointment reminders
- Share structured questionnaires (e.g., about childhood behaviours)
- Clarify follow-up needs
We use secure platforms such as Hero Health to manage this information confidentially and in line with GDPR standards.
What does your ADHD assessment involve?
Our assessments include a detailed review of your medical history, current symptoms, and any relevant background information. You’ll complete standardised questionnaires, followed by a structured clinical interview with one of our experienced clinicians. All assessments follow NICE guidelines to ensure a thorough and accurate diagnosis.
What follow-up care do you provide?
We offer regular follow-up appointments to:
- Monitor your response to medication
- Adjust dosages if needed
- Provide support around side effects and symptom management
We also liaise with your GP if shared care is appropriate for ongoing prescriptions.
What Happens if the Informant Cannot Attend?
While informant participation is strongly encouraged, we understand that it may not always be feasible. If your informant is unable to attend the appointment:
- We may arrange to collect information through a structured questionnaire or follow-up call
- The clinician may advise rescheduling the appointment if their input is critical
- If no informant is available at all, this will be discussed at clinical team level, and a decision made about how best to proceed
What is an Informant?
The Role of an Informant in Your ADHD Assessment
As part of your ADHD diagnostic process with HH Minds, it would be beneficial to have an informant attend the assessment with you. This supports a well-rounded and accurate understanding of your experiences and symptoms across different stages of life.
What is an Informant?
An informant is someone who knows you well — ideally over a long period of time — and can offer useful observations about your behaviour, attention, and functioning. Their role is to help provide a more complete picture of your developmental history and day-to-day experiences.
What types of ADHD medication do you prescribe?
We offer a range of evidence-based treatment options for adult ADHD, including:
- Stimulant medications (e.g. methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine)
- Non-stimulant medications (e.g. atomoxetine)
Your clinician will work with you to choose the most appropriate treatment based on your needs and medical history.
Who Makes a Good Informant?
A suitable informant is someone who:
- Has known you since childhood, or for a significant portion of your life
- Is familiar with your attention, behaviour, and daily functioning
- Can provide honest and supportive feedback
- Is comfortable participating in a clinical conversation (in person or remotely)
Common examples include a parent, sibling, long-term partner, close friend, or teacher/caregiver.
Why Is an Informant Important?
According to national guidelines (e.g. NICE NG87), a diagnosis of ADHD requires evidence that symptoms were present before the age of 12 and have persisted over time. An informant helps:
- Fill in developmental history, particularly where memory or self-report may be limited
- Provide a second perspective to complement your own reflections
Support accurate diagnosis and safe treatment planning
Will you communicate with my GP?
Yes. With your consent, we will send a summary of your assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plan to your GP. This ensures continuity of care and enables shared care arrangements where appropriate.
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