For a new patient seeking ADHD care, the diagnostic process is three appointments in order. This article explains what each appointment is for.
Looking for something else?
What to do before the first appointment: How your ADHD initial intake appointment works
A gap in care, or a diagnosis from another clinic: Which ADHD appointment to book
How often to book after the three appointments: How ADHD follow-up appointments work
How long each appointment is: Finding the right appointment type
New Jersey: How ADHD medication and care works in New Jersey
Who can get ADHD care: Who can get ADHD, anxiety, or depression care
Who completes these three appointments?
Any new patient who starts ADHD care completes these appointments in order:
ADHD Initial intake appointment
ADHD Comprehensive health assessment
ADHD Diagnosis and treatment
A new patient in New Jersey completes the same first two appointments. The third is In-person ADHD diagnosis and treatment.
A diagnosis from another clinic, provider, or facility does not replace these appointments. Which appointment to book is in Which ADHD appointment to book.
What is appointment 1?
Your first appointment is the "ADHD Initial intake appointment". What to complete beforehand, and what your provider reviews, is in How your ADHD initial intake appointment works.
What is appointment 2?
Your second appointment is the ADHD Comprehensive health assessment.
Your provider does a deeper evaluation to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing your symptoms. They assess sleep, heart health, and vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight), and may order labs. They may give a brief overview of possible treatment plans, including prescription medication or lifestyle changes, if appropriate.
You cannot book this appointment until the initial intake is complete.
What is appointment 3?
Your third appointment is ADHD Diagnosis and treatment. Your provider decides whether ADHD is the right diagnosis. They discuss next steps, including treatment options and their risks and benefits.
If prescription medication is appropriate, your provider may prescribe an initial 14-day supply.
If lab work was ordered earlier, your provider typically reviews those results at this appointment, along with your vital signs again.
In New Jersey, this third appointment is in person. Book In-person ADHD diagnosis and treatment. See How ADHD medication and care works in New Jersey.
What happens after the three appointments?
Book ADHD Follow-up appointments. How often, and what to do if your provider is unavailable, is in How ADHD follow-up appointments work.
What if my provider says I need different care?
Some psychiatric histories need a psychiatrist or other specialist. Your provider decides during the process. See Who can get ADHD, anxiety, or depression care. If you need care outside Circle Medical, get in touch with support or check with your insurance for referral resources.
