Getting an ADHD diagnosis can be a life-changing step toward better focus, productivity, and mental health—but many people hesitate to pursue testing because of cost concerns. One of the most common questions we hear is: does insurance cover ADHD testing? The answer depends on a few factors, including your insurance provider, your plan, and where you get tested. In this article, we’ll break down what ADHD testing involves, how much it typically costs without insurance, and how to find out if your insurance will cover it.
What Does ADHD Testing Entail?
At A Better Day Psychiatry, we use a combination of a diagnostic interview as well as collecting rating scales to diagnose ADHD. There are other methods you may come across such as a computer-based test for ADHD, but the gold standard is the combination of the interview and rating scales. The diagnostic interview typically takes 60 minutes and for adults includes just the patient but for children and adolescents involves the patients and parents (or family members/guardians). For rating scales, for children and adolescents we use primarily “observer forms” such as Vanderbilt ADHD rating scales for parents and teachers to fill out. For adults, we use the CAARS, or Connor’s Adult ADHD Rating Scale” for both the patient to fill out as well as an observer (such as a spouse, friend, parent, etc.) The part the takes the longest for the assessment is waiting to get the rating scales back from other people. When we are able to get the rating scales filled out prior to the intake appointment, we are likely able to diagnose and treat within that first 60-minute evaluation!
How Much Does ADHD Testing Cost?
The range of costs for ADHD testing can have a very wide range. For the most comprehensive testing (which may include in addition to ADHD, tests for intelligence, autism, personality disorders, mood disorders) the assessments can be over $6000. These tests can take anywhere from a half day to a couple of days. At A Better Day Psychiatry, we are able to charge our intake cost for a psychiatric evaluation (ranges from $250-450 depending on the provider) to diagnose ADHD as well as assess and diagnose for mood, anxiety, OCD, psychosis, etc.
When Does Insurance Cover ADHD Testing?
To determine if your insurance covers ADHD testing, you can check your benefits or speak with an insurance representative to assess what your mental health benefits are. You could ask, “how much does it cost me to see a psychiatrist” or “how much does my insurance cover a psychiatrist visit” and that would be the cost for you to get tested for ADHD. This could range towards full coverage, the cost being applied to your deductible, or a coinsurance such as 10-20% that you are responsible for.
ADHD Testing In Denver and Golden, CO
Looking for ADHD testing near you? A Better Day Psychiatry is the best option. Next day appointments are available. Book a consultation today if you would like to learn more.