Is there a specific way for testing adults with adhd? i know some doctors, psychologists, and psychiatristsdon't take insurance for tests that involve extensive work ups. what's the basic test and what could people avoid so they save money?

No basic test: The DX of adhd relies on evaluation and observational, objective data, for example, from teachers, parents, others. Some insurance plans pay for the psychological testing that might be needed, but, again, observations and records from childhood are often helpful in determining the proper diagnosis. Save money by finding a doctor who works with your insurance, & gathering school records yourself.

No shortcuts: Ask your insurance if they cover diagnosis & treatment of adhd. If so, by whom? Do you need a referral from your primary care? Neuropsychologsts test for deficits in processing, memory, & executive functions associated with adhd. These data are needed to request accomodations at work/school. Psychiatrists make the medical diagnoses of adhd & comorbidities by history & other tools & manage meds.

Neuropsych testing: Since there is no one test that is always sensitive, it can be misleading to see claims that a specific test can or cannot rule out adhd. Carefull history, current and retrospective inventories of symptoms and combinations and patterns on neuropsychological tesing is your best bet if you want to be certain about a diagnosis that is presumed lifelong and has lots of possible comorbid problems.

No specific test: There is no specific test for adult adhd. Your doctor should be able to arrive at this diagnosis by a detailed chronological history from you and sometimes, colateral info from either parents or teachers through old school report cards. Some screening questionnaires and tests may be employed to aid in dxs but do not substitute for a good evaluation.