Improving access to ADHD medicines and care in the ACT

The ACT Government is making it easier for people with ADHD to access appropriate treatment by simplifying prescribing processes for ADHD medicines.

From today, general practitioners (GPs) who have completed approved training will no longer need repeated patient reviews from a psychiatrist, paediatrician or neurologist, or approval from the Chief Health Officer to allow ongoing prescribing of ADHD medication for eligible patients.

Eligible patients are those who are stable on their ADHD medication, aged six years and older, and have an existing diagnosis from a relevant specialist.

Psychiatrists, paediatricians, and neurologists will also no longer require Chief Health Officer approval to prescribe ADHD medications to patients within defined dosage ranges, removing unnecessary red tape.

This reform will deliver on the ACT Government’s election commitment to expand the role of GPs in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, recognising the pressures and barriers families and individuals may face when accessing care.

Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the changes would benefit both patients and health professionals by reducing delays, easing demand for referrals and appointments, and removing unnecessary administrative burdens.

“Families and individuals living with ADHD can sometimes face barriers to accessing treatment,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.

“The changes that come into effect today around prescribing ADHD medications are the first stage of our approach to better supporting ADHD care in the ACT.

“Further reforms will come into effect later this year to allow GPs, with additional training, to diagnose ADHD and initiate medication for patients.

“These changes will improve access to timely care and help ease pressure on the health system, while ensuring prescribing remains safe and supported by appropriate monitoring.

“This reform is part of the ACT Government’s broader commitment to enabling health professionals to work to their full scope of practice and improving access to high quality, safe care for our community.

“I am pleased to see the Territory take another step in this direction and to highlight the important role of GPs in providing coordinated comprehensive care.”

Today’s changes will complement existing arrangements in the ACT for GPs who choose not to expand their ADHD scope of practice or for more complex presentations. In these circumstances, GPs can continue prescribing ADHD medications in a shared-care arrangement with paediatricians, psychiatrists and neurologists.

The ACT Government continues to work closely with the Australian and NSW governments towards a nationally consistent approach to expanding GP scope of practice for ADHD diagnosis and medication management.

For information about ADHD, visit act.gov.au and search ‘ADHD’, or visit the HealthDirect website.

Quotes attributable to Australian Medical Association (AMA) ACT President, Dr. Kerrie Aust:

“AMA ACT is pleased to see the ACT Government move to simplify diagnosis and treatment pathways for ADHD by enabling appropriately trained GPs to provide ongoing care. This is a sensible reform that reflects both clinical realities and the calls from patients and families for better access to timely assessment and treatment.

“Importantly, the changes maintain appropriate safeguards and recognises the role of GPs as central providers of care. We look forward to its implementation and evaluation, and to seeing the benefits this change brings for Canberrans who have long sought a more responsive and streamlined system.”

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