Boynton has specific policies for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- If you are currently (or previously) diagnosed and treated for ADHD, we must review your records.
- If you were diagnosed after age 15, we require that your diagnostic workup include adequate neuropsychological testing (see our Frequently Asked Questions section).
- If you are getting a stimulant prescription from Boynton, you will be asked to review and sign a medication agreement (Controlled Substance Agreement).
- You may be asked to complete a urine drug screen or additional medical evaluations.
What to do if you suspect you have undiagnosed ADHD
- Make an appointment with Mental Health or Primary Care by calling 612-624-1444 or through the MyBoynton patient portal.
- Make sure the scheduler knows that you have questions about ADHD. Your provider will discuss these issues and refer you for neuropsychological testing if appropriate.
- If you have never been diagnosed, and your provider recommends an ADHD evaluation, you must complete a full clinical workup, including and interview, neurophysiological testing, and possible lab tests.
- Medications are prescribed at the discretion of the provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a comprehensive ADHD evaluation?
A comprehensive ADHD evaluation is a neuropsychological evaluation generally performed by a Ph.D.-level licensed psychologist. After an initial interview (typically about 60 minutes in length), the psychologist decides upon a series of tests to investigate your symptoms. The evaluation may take from 4 to 8 hours and be completed in a single session or divided over two days. Some psychologists may set up a final meeting to review the results of the evaluation with you. Comprehensive testing must include at minimum intelligence testing (such as the WAIS-IV) and a computerized continuous performance test (such as the TOVA, IPA, or CPT). It usually takes 2 to 3 weeks to get results from your ADHD evaluation.
I had an ADHD evaluation done in my hometown. Can I submit that?
You are welcome to submit previous testing. It is helpful to get those records to your provider before your appointment. However, it is common for these evaluations to fall short of the standards that our guidelines require. Conversational interviews with your physician and/or taking a pencil/paper checklist test do not meet the requirements of a comprehensive ADHD evaluation. If your previous evaluation does not meet our criteria, your provider may have you meet with our clinic social worker for referral to a psychologist who performs comprehensive ADHD assessments.
I’ve been on ADHD medications for several years now. I need a prescription to continue my medications as soon as possible.
Adequate records or a comprehensive ADHD evaluation need to be submitted in order for our psychiatry staff to consider prescribing you medications. Please contact your previous prescriber to arrange for refills until the evaluation has been completed. A prescription from a licensed physician in another state can be filled by a Minnesota pharmacy but most ADHD medications cannot be called or faxed in. Instead have your out-of-state physician mail you the prescription.
What does an ADHD evaluation cost?
A comprehensive ADHD evaluation generally runs from $1,400 to $2,500. Many insurance companies do not cover the cost of ADHD evaluation. Check with your health insurance provider about cost and coverage.
I’ve completed my evaluation. What happens next?
Plan to follow up with your Boynton provider about 2 to 3 weeks after your evaluation. Our staff will review the ADHD evaluation and determine if it supports an ADHD diagnosis and treatment. If the evaluation does not support ADHD, other treatable conditions such as depression and anxiety may better explain your symptoms. Occasionally the evaluation may suggest that you would benefit from services that are not available in our clinic. In such cases the Boynton Health social worker can help you find community resources that meet your needs.