Harley Mind Care

HARLEY MIND CARE PSYCHIATRISTS

FAQs

Some common questions about Consultations
and how we work.

FAQs

Repeat Prescriptions

  • How can I order a repeat prescription?


    No Description
    1 Please visit our website at www.harleymindcare.com
    2 Select Book an Appointment.
    3 Choose Repeat Prescription.
    4 Select Repeat Prescription Admin Fee.
    5 Click Next.
    6 Appointment emails and SMS will be received more often as proof that the prescription has been ordered than for the appointment.
    7 Complete the payment process.
    8 Choose to Repeat Prescription.

  • How long before the Pharmacy gets the repeat prescription?


    • Typically, your repeat prescription request is processed within two working days by our Clinic. Our doctors review and authorise each prescription unless you’ve been approved for a longer duration (e.g., six months).
    • Once approved, we promptly send the repeat prescription to your chosen pharmacy for dispensing.

  • When should I reorder my medication?


    • It’s best to reorder seven days in advance. However, if you prefer home delivery, please place your order 7 days before. If you collect from a local pharmacy, it usually takes around 3 days.

  • Will I need to attend a repeat prescription virtual appointment?


    You will not need to attend this Appointment.

    For repeat prescriptions, our practice manager collaborates directly with your doctor on your behalf to ensure your needs are met efficiently. This streamlined process is designed to provide you with continuity in your treatment, helping you manage your health without interruption.

General Psychiatric Assessment

  • How do I book a General Psychiatric Consultation?

    No Description
    1 Please visit our website at www.harleymindcare.com
    2 Select Book an Appointment.
    3 Choose General Psychiatry Consultation.
    4 Select Adult Psychiatric General Assessment – Virtual.
    5 Click Next.
    6 Choose a Dr from the list of available doctors.
    7 Select a date and time that works for you.
    8 Complete the payment process.


  • What can I expect after my assessment?

    No Description
    1 If medication is indicated, your prescription will be dispatched to an online pharmacy. Rest assured that our clinic has no financial incentives tied to your medication purchases.
    2 You’ll schedule follow-up virtual meetings as agreed upon with your psychiatrist.
    3 Feel free to message your provider whenever needed.


    Once you have subscribed to our secure portal at Harley Mind Care, you will have access for life. We will provide the following services.

    No Type Patient Portal Lifetime benefits
    1 Patient Portal You will have access to view and upload documents, billing activity, reports, and Educational resources (see below)
    2 Automated Reminders We will send out automated reminders for appointments, questionnaires, and 6-monthly reviews.
    3 Educational Resources We will upload educational videos on managing ADHD and pamphlets to assist you in things like monitoring your blood pressure and other health-related matters.
    4 Communications Portal, Email, Telephone, WhatsApp, Telegram and Messenger.

  • What happens during a General Psychiatric assessment?

    No Description
    1 During a psychiatric assessment, a qualified Senior Consultant Psychiatrist will attentively listen to your symptoms, assess your mental health, and discuss your concerns.
    2 They may ask about your medical history, family background, and any relevant life events.
    3 Based on this assessment, they will provide a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan, which will include a first prescription for medication if required.


  • What treatment options are available?

    Treatment options vary based on individual needs but may include:

    No Description
    1 Medication: Psychiatrists may prescribe medications such as antidepressants, mood stabilisers, or antipsychotics.
    2 Psychotherapy: Therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), or psychodynamic therapy.
    3 Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep play a crucial role in managing symptoms.


ADHD

  • Do GPs reject NHS Shared Care Agreements from private clinics?

    Many GPs currently show hesitancy to accept shared care agreements, even those involving patients referred under the NHS Right to Choose scheme. This often highlights a disparity in the acceptance of follow-up and aftercare arrangements between physical and mental health services provided by private entities.

    However, it's also true that some GPs do accept these shared care arrangements. It's challenging to predict which ones will or will not without prior inquiry.

    I would advise anyone considering private assessments to discuss these possibilities with their GP beforehand. This ensures that you are fully informed about potential outcomes regarding shared care arrangements.

  • How do I book a Child/Adolescent ADHD Virtual Consultation?

    No Description
    1 Please visit our website at www.harleymindcare.com
    2 Select Book an Appointment.
    3 Choose ADHD Consultation.
    4 Select Child/Adolescent ADHD Assessment – Virtual.
    5 Click Next.
    6 Choose a Dr from the list of available doctors.
    7 Select a date and time that works for you.
    8 Complete the payment process.


  • How do I book an Adult ADHD Virtual Consultation?

    No Description
    1 Please visit our website at www.harleymindcare.com
    2 Select Book an Appointment.
    3 Choose ADHD Consultation.
    4 Select Adult ADHD Assessment – Virtual.
    5 Click Next.
    6 Choose a Dr from the list of available doctors.
    7 Select a date and time that works for you.
    8 Complete the payment process.


  • What are the ADHD Pre-appointment Requirements?


    Requirements for Adult ADHD Assessment

    No Requirement Brief Description
    1 Blood Pressure, Pulse Weight and Height Form

    Records vital statistics of the patient.

    2 ADHD Self-Report Scale Symptom Checklist

    A self-assessment tool for ADHD symptoms.

    3 Adult ADHD Informant Report

    A report filled by someone who knew the patient before they were 12.

    4 ADHD Cardiac Health Questions

    Assesses the cardiac health of the patient.

    5 Wender Utah Rating Scale for ADHD

    A psychological test that assesses ADHD symptoms.

    6 ADHD Self-Report Scale

    Another self-assessment tool for ADHD symptoms.

    7 PHQ9 and GAD7

    Standardised self-report scales for identifying depression and anxiety.
    8 Upload the patient's ID and proof of address from the last 3 months. Verifies the identity and current address of the patient.


    Requirements for Child/Adolescent ADHD Assessment

    No Requirement Description
    1 Blood Pressure, Pulse Weight and Height Form Records vital statistics of the patient.
    2 Conners 4 - Parent Form Response This is completed online by a teacher who knows the patient.
    3 Conners 4 - Teacher Form Response This is completed online by a teacher who knows the patient.
    4 Conners 4 - Self-Report Form Response This is completed online by the patient.
    5 Childhood Behaviour Scale - Self-Report A self-assessment tool.
    6 Upload the ID of the parent/guardian and Proof of Address in the last 3 months Verifies the identity and current address of the patient's parent/guardian.
    7 Upload the ID of the Patient. Verifies the identity of the patient.

  • What are the pros and cons of private Care over NHS Pathways for ADHD Assessment?

    Private care offers several advantages over NHS pathways for ADHD Assessments. These include quicker diagnosis and treatment, more scheduling flexibility, and personalised care options. However, the initial costs of private care are higher, and NHS coverage may vary depending on GP cooperation.

    One of the significant challenges with NHS pathways is the long waiting times for ADHD assessments. As per a report from October 20231, there are significant variations in waiting times across the country. For children, the waiting time varies from 5 weeks to a devastating 5 years. For adults, the variation is equally stark – it varies from 12 weeks to over 10 years1.

  • What are the pros and cons of Virtual vs. In-Person Consultations?

    Consultation Type Pros Cons
    Virtual Consultations Convenience: Can be done from the comfort of your home.
    Efficiency: Ideal for initial assessments and follow-ups.
    Limited Scope: Connection problems, software glitches, or hardware failures can disrupt or even prevent virtual meetings, causing frustration and delays.
    In-Person Consultations Comprehensive: Allows for a thorough evaluation.
    Personalised: Can be tailored to your preferences.
    Less Convenient: Requires travel and scheduling time.
    Both methods have their unique advantages and can be chosen based on individual needs and circumstances.

  • What is the overall cost of a Virtual Adult ADHD Assessment?

    No Description Cost Time
    1 A virtual Adult ADHD assessment

    1. This includes a full report, including diagnosis and treatment plan.

    2. The first free medication prescription.

    3. A free Shared Care Agreement with your GP (if required).

    £750 60-90 Mins
    2 Following diagnosis, medication titration involves follow-up consultations costing.

    £150 per 15-minute session.

    Titration can last between 8 and 12 weeks and potentially require multiple visits,

    depending on your response. to the medication. Our goal is to complete this

    process as quickly and safely as possible.

    £150 15 Mins
    3 ADHD medication, being a controlled substance, requires a monthly prescription.

    If the patient isn’t transferred to the NHS under a shared care agreement, there

    will be an approximate monthly cost of £45 per repeat prescription.

    £45

    per month

    4 According to the NICE guidelines, the treatment response for all ADHD drugs

    should be reviewed every 6 months at £275 per 30-minute session.

    (This review includes a comprehensive assessment of clinical needs, benefits,

    and side effects, taking into account the views of the patient and carers,

    the effect of missed doses, planned dose reductions, and brief periods of no treatment.)

    £275

    every 6 Months

    30 mins


    Once you have subscribed to our secure portal at Harley Mind Care, you will have access for life. We will provide the following services.

    No Type Patient Portal Lifetime benefits
    1 Patient Portal You will have access to view and upload documents, billing activity, reports, and

    Educational resources (see below)

    2 Automated Reminders We will send out automated reminders for appointments, questionnaires, and

    6-monthly reviews.

    3 Educational Resources We will upload educational videos on managing ADHD and pamphlets to assist

    you in things like monitoring your blood pressure and other health-related matters.

    4 Communications Portal, Email, Telephone, WhatsApp, Telegram and Messenger.

  • What is the overall cost of a Virtual Child/Adolescent ADHD Assessment?

    No Description Cost Time
    1 A virtual Child/Adolescent ADHD assessment

    1. This includes a full report, including diagnosis and treatment plan.

    2. The first free medication prescription.

    3. A free Shared Care Agreement with your GP (if required).

    £1,245 60-90 Mins
    2 Following diagnosis, medication titration involves follow-up consultations costing.

    £150 - £325 per 15-minute session.

    Titration can last between 8 and 12 weeks and potentially require multiple visits,

    depending on your response. to the medication. Our goal is to complete this

    process as quickly and safely as possible.

    £150 - £325 15 Mins
    3 ADHD medication, being a controlled substance, requires a monthly prescription.

    If the patient isn’t transferred to the NHS under a shared care agreement, there

    will be an approximate monthly cost of £45 per repeat prescription.

    £45

    per month

    4 According to the NICE guidelines, the treatment response for all ADHD drugs

    should be reviewed every 6 months at £590 per 30-minute session.

    (This review includes a comprehensive assessment of clinical needs, benefits,

    and side effects, taking into account the views of the patient and carers,

    the effect of missed doses, planned dose reductions, and brief periods of no treatment.)

    £590

    every 6 Months

    30 mins


    Once you have subscribed to our secure portal at Harley Mind Care, you will have access for life. We will provide the following services.

    No Type Patient Portal Lifetime benefits
    1 Patient Portal You will have access to view and upload documents, billing activity, reports, and

    Educational resources (see below)

    2 Automated Reminders We will send out automated reminders for appointments, questionnaires, and

    6-monthly reviews.

    3 Educational Resources We will upload educational videos on managing ADHD and pamphlets to assist

    you in things like monitoring your blood pressure and other health-related matters.

    4 Communications Portal, Email, Telephone, WhatsApp, Telegram and Messenger.

  • What to expect when trying new controlled drugs for ADHD - Medication Titration?

    Medication Titration: Understanding the Process

    No Description
    1 Medication titration for ADHD is a personalised process designed to identify the most effective medication and dosage for each individual. This process begins once a treatment plan has been agreed upon. When starting on new controlled drugs for ADHD, the medication titration process is crucial.
    2 The titration period is characterised by a series of regular, brief follow-ups with your Consultant Psychiatrist. These follow-ups allow for the monitoring and evaluation of the individual’s response to the treatment.
    3 Titration involves gradually adjusting the dosage of the medication to find the most effective dose with the fewest side effects. This process requires close monitoring and communication with your Consultant Psychiatrist.
    4 Given the unique nature of each individual’s response to medication, it’s challenging to predict the exact number of follow-ups required. Typically, this process involves between 3 to 5 follow-ups, but this can vary based on the individual’s response.
    5 It’s important to note that General Practitioners (GPs) often review the frequency and number of these follow-ups before accepting a Shared Care Proposal. If they find the titration process unsatisfactory, they have the right to decline to take over the care on the NHS.

    Many patients report feeling a sense of clarity and improved organisational skills once the medication reaches an optimal level.

    Target Symptoms of ADHD Medications

    ADHD medications aim to improve several core symptoms:

    No Type Description
    1 Inattention You may notice an increase in your ability to focus, concentrate, and complete tasks.
    2 Hyperactivity  There might be a reduction in excessive movements and fidgeting.
    3 Impulsivity You could experience better control over your actions and a decrease in impulsive behaviours.

    Potential Side Effects and What to Watch For

    While ADHD medications can be highly effective, they can also cause side effects. It's important to be aware of these and report them to your Consultant Psychiatrist

    Common Side Effects

    No Description
    1 Appetite loss
    2 Insomnia
    3 Dry mouth
    4 Headaches
    5 Stomach-aches

    Less Common, but Serious Side Effects

    No Description
    1 Increased heart rate or blood pressure
    2 Mood changes, including increased irritability or anger
    3 Anxiety or nervousness

    Monitoring Emotional Changes

    It's important to monitor for any changes in mood or behaviour, especially during the initial titration period. Some patients may experience an increase in anger or irritability. Loved ones should be aware of this possibility and provide support and understanding during this time.

    Tips for Managing Side Effects

    No Description Action
    1 Appetite loss Eat smaller, more frequent meals, and opt for nutrient-dense foods.
    2 Insomnia Maintain a consistent sleep routine, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening, and create a relaxing bedtime environment.
    3 Dry mouth Drink plenty of water, chew sugar-free gum, or use over-the-counter saliva substitutes.
    4 Headaches Ensure proper hydration, take breaks from screens, and use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (after consulting with your Consultant Psychiatrist).
    5 Stomach-aches Take medication with food and avoid spicy or greasy foods.

    Communicating with Your Consultant Psychiatrist

    Regular follow-up appointments are essential during the titration process. Keep a journal of your symptoms, side effects, and any changes in behaviour. Share this information with your healthcare provider to help them adjust your dosage effectively. 

    Support from Loved Ones 

    Inform your family and close friends about the potential for mood changes, such as increased irritability or anger. Their understanding and support can be invaluable during this period. Encourage them to be patient and provide a calm, supportive environment.

    Final Thoughts

    Starting new controlled drugs for ADHD can be a transformative experience, leading to significant improvements in attention, focus, and overall functioning. However, the titration process requires careful monitoring and communication with your Psychiatrist. By understanding potential side effects and seeking support from loved ones, you can navigate this period more smoothly and achieve the best possible outcome.

    If you have any concerns, contact your Psychiatrist.

    If you experience severe side effects, contact emergency services immediately. Your safety and well-being are the top priorities.

  • Who supplies the Medication?

    Our clinic issues prescriptions, which are filled by external pharmacies. Each order incurs a separate charge from the pharmacy, providing you with the most effective and current medications. Rest assured that our clinic has no financial incentives tied to your medication purchases.

  • Why can Psychologists define ADHD but cannot prescribe medication?

    • While psychologists are experts in diagnosing mental health conditions like ADHD, they are not medical doctors. Therefore, they cannot prescribe medication.
    • Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. If a psychologist diagnoses you with ADHD, you will need an assessment by a psychiatrist to discuss medication options.
    • The NHS shared care agreement requires a psychiatrist’s report to continue medication. This ensures that your treatment is monitored and adjusted as necessary by a medical Doctor.

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