How do I change my childs specialist

[Victoria Waterfield]

Hi Guys,

 

Im new to the site, my son Kyle was diagnosed with Severe ADHD 2 yrs ago and now with Social and Emotional Disorder, I feel he has Aspergers but the Doctor says no.

 

I go to support groups and meet up with other mums and children with ADHD but hes nothing like that, hes so cut off and aggressive and a very clever kid, not that the other children arent, I have done so much research on the subject and im convinced.

 

My heart is broken and i really want a 2nd opinion on him, where do I go?

 

Thank you

 

Vicky

[cmuir]

Hi

 

I'd be completely upfront and say the your current specialist that you feel the diagnosis is wrong and state why. That way, you're more likely to prompt a well reasoned/considered response, which may then put your mind at rest and/or, at the very least give you an opportunity to state why you don't feel ADHD is right. Professionals can and do get it wrong at times - we were passed from pillar to post before seeing someone who really knew what she was talking about (who didn't just agree for the sake of it, but rather, that was her area of specific expertise). If you're upfront, you give the doctor the opportunity to review things. If it's still a 'no', then tell him/her outright that you'll be seeking a second opinion. Be aware that colleagues may refuse to re-assess for political reasons, and so things would very much depend upon how the dept is structured. I was in a situation where I felt my son was being passed from pillar to post with no one willing to make a decision, or anyone that could in fact engage my son long enough to assess him. I told the Paed outright how I felt, but got nowhere. I then called the dept head's secretary explaining the situation and asking to see another specialist. I did put noses out of joint, but ultimately my child was losing out on valuable help and support (also, as a parent, I was the one having to manage very difficult day-to-day situations, and wasn't able to clock on at 9 'til 5).

 

Best wishes.

 

Caroline.

[Sally44]

You could also try getting some advice from the National Autistic Society at www.nas.org.uk

 

Your local hospital should also have a PALS service, which is for patient information and support - I think it is the NHS equivalent to the parent partnership within the Local Authority.

 

I think you are entitled to a second opinion. There must be a multi disciplinary team within your NHS Trust that specialises in assessing children with an ASD.