FROM this month, GPs can begin training to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as part of the next phase of landmark reforms to make it easier, faster and more affordable for families to access care.

Nearly 600 general practitioners have expressed interest in undertaking training to be able to diagnose and treat ADHD.

With a focus on improving access to healthcare in regional, rural and remote areas, GPs working in areas of greatest need will be prioritised for training.

More than 800 GPs have been trained to fill repeat ADHD medication scripts as part of the first phase of reforms.

This has enabled ADHD patients to be prescribed essential medication via their GPs saving patients and their families a trip to see a psychiatrist or paediatrician.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the reforms are expanding capacity to support the greater health system.

“Accessing ADHD diagnosis services in regional and rural communities is a challenge,” Mr Park said.

“As part of this next step, we’re prioritising training of GPs in the bush so families can get the care they need closer to home.

“We know the impact high quality ADHD care can have on family wellbeing, we are deeply committed to ensuring children in metro and regional New South Wales are not left behind.

“If you’d like to speak to a doctor about ADHD diagnosis, I encourage you to discuss with your regular GP to understand if they will provide this assessment.”

ADHD patient and psychology graduate 21-year-old Lucia Porteus, said what helped her most to overcome the challenges of ADHD was not only medication, but also continued access to treatment and support.

“I received support from my ADHD coach, my school, paediatricians, GPs and my family,” Ms Porteus said.

“The support I received helped me to graduate with a Bachelor of Psychological Science from UNSW, and I’m currently looking at completing post-grad or honours to help people with disabilities and mental health issues to succeed, too.

“I know I have been lucky. Many of my peers have struggled to access medication or a diagnosis for ADHD because of costs and long wait lists, but this new policy will remove such barriers for so many people,” she said.

Since September 1 last year, more than 5000 patients have benefitted from the new arrangement, with increased access and more than 18,000 scripts filled.

Previously, most people seeking ADHD care had to navigate a costly and overloaded non-GP specialist system, experiencing long wait times and high fees which could delay treatment, particularly for children.

These delays can impact children’s development, such as poorer academic progress, and later impact employment opportunities and mental health.

Applications for GPs wishing to enrol in stage two of the reform remain open, however training spots are limited, so those interested are being encouraged to act soon.

Training costs will be covered by NSW Health, with a remuneration package available to those who complete the training.

A waiting list will also be maintained for future training opportunities.

GPs can also apply to become a continuation prescriber.

GPs will continue to make specialist referrals, and escalate care, as required to ensure patients are receiving the treatment they need, when and where they need it.

More information is available at ADHD care in general practice, and GPs with any questions are encouraged to visit ADHD Reforms.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said feedback from everyone involved in the reforms so far has been incredibly positive, with some going as far as saying it’s been life-changing for managing their treatment.

“We’re incredibly excited to move to the next stage where GPs can undertake training to actually diagnose ADHD,” Ms Jackson said.

“It’s the next step in building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income.

“We have already worked to reduce long waiting lists just to refill scripts – now we’re helping reduce the stress and anxiety many feel while waiting for an ADHD diagnosis.”

RACGP NSW & ACT chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, said evidence indicates up to 10 per cent of children and six per cent of adults live with ADHD.

“This is a common condition that can be diagnosed and managed well by a specialist GP with appropriate training,” Dr Hoffman said.

“The reforms announced will make a huge difference to thousands of patients in our state. Access to an ADHD diagnosis and ongoing care is very often lifechanging.

“ADHD affects many aspects of a person’s life and health – their sleep, their education, how they interact with others.

“GPs are specialists in whole-of-person care, and are well-placed to help patients with ADHD to thrive at school, in university, at work, and at home,” she said.