What the hell is going on and how do I navigate this situation? My QOL is really being stymied by this.
Ive been thinking of switching to a job with private Healthcare, is that any better?
There are some things you can try while you wait to see a doctor though. There are some good books to help education you on ADHD itself. Trying to add a few microhabits into your life can also help you prepare for when you do get medication. If you start to try to build a foundation, you'll have a few tools in place.
Finally, I've had some success with B vitamin supplements such as Primal Mind Fuel. (I honestly don't think you need an expensive version of it. Vitamin Water or 5 Hour energy have some of the same vitamins). They are sort of an over the counter stimulant that may give you a bit of help. Be careful though. They might mess with your sleep or anxiety. They tend to increase my heart rate, which feels a bit like stage fright or low level anxiety.
The out of pocket costs aren't crazy (they're not nothing but probably not more disruptive than getting a new job) and should be mostly posted on their site other than the medication which is just bought from chemists and so has a standard market price.