GPs can soon prescribe ADHD medication, but will it solve the problem or shift the burden? Until now, only psychiatrists and psychologists have been able to diagnose and treat ADHD, but from February 1, GPs will also have this capability. This change could improve access to diagnosis and treatment, but doctors warn it's not a quick fix. The demand for ADHD diagnoses is soaring, and while this shift may help, it's not a panacea. The process of receiving an ADHD diagnosis is already complex and expensive for adults, with long waiting lists in the public system and high costs for private assessments. Only psychiatrists and paediatricians can initiate prescribing ADHD medication, but GPs and nurse practitioners can continue prescribing on a specialist's recommendation. However, GPs are cautious about the new responsibility, emphasizing the need to manage expectations and the potential for misdiagnosis. The broader context is a growing demand for ADHD diagnoses, especially among previously neglected groups like women and girls. The increase in prescriptions for adults with ADHD between 2006 and 2022 is notable, but it may indicate that only those who can afford private assessments are receiving treatment. The medications used to treat ADHD can be misused recreationally, adding to the complexity of the issue. The upside of making prescriptions available through GPs is easier access, but the downside is the potential strain on already busy GPs. The global shortage of ADHD medication is another challenge, as Pharmac has delayed the prescribing changes until 2026. The shift in who can diagnose and prescribe for ADHD is a bureaucratic change, but it won't solve the problem overnight, especially with constrained drug supply chains. The private system will likely remain a go-to for those who can afford it, and public psychiatrists may still have long waiting lists. The condition often coexists with other mental health issues, and the focus should be on addressing the underlying causes and providing comprehensive support.
