ADHD Online 'Tests' Raise Overdiagnosis Concerns; Improved Training Urged
Private clinics' online 'tests' for health insurance coverage have sparked concerns about potential over-diagnosis. Meanwhile, improved training for health professionals is seen as crucial to reduce missed and misdiagnoses. Health insurance typically covers ADHD, affecting around 2.5% of adults and 7% of children, causing attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity issues.
Health insurance often covers the diagnostic process, which involves meeting specific symptom criteria, standardized questionnaires, clinical interviews, and ruling out other causes. A core requirement is evidence that symptoms significantly interfere with social, academic, or occupational functioning. Comprehensive assessment includes a clinical interview, broader mental and physical health assessment, and input from significant others.
ADHD, if left untreated, can severely impact educational and work achievements, social and emotional wellbeing, and increase risks of accidents, offending, mental illness, and substance abuse. While online 'tests' raise concerns, improved training for health professionals can help ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate health insurance coverage.
