ADHD Assessment and Management

ADHD Assessment and Management at Our Clinic

Updated for the Queensland GP prescribing changes from 1 December

From December, specialist GPs in Queensland can diagnose ADHD and prescribe stimulant medications for adults. It is a major step forward for access, but it does not mean shortcuts or same day prescribing. Here is what the reforms actually mean in a general practice setting, and what you can expect from us.

What Has Changed in Queensland

Queensland is the first state in Australia to allow specialist GPs to diagnose ADHD and prescribe stimulant medication for adults. These reforms aim to:

• Expanded scope
  GPs who choose to participate can now diagnose ADHD in adults and initiate, adjust, and continue stimulant prescribing.
• Improved access
  Shorter waits and fewer roadblocks, especially for regional and rural patients.
• Potential cost savings
  Seeing your GP instead of a psychiatrist may save between five hundred and fourteen hundred dollars per year.
• Holistic management
  GPs will manage ADHD as part of whole person care, which may include psychology, behavioural supports, and allied health.
• Continued specialist role
  Psychiatrists remain important for complex cases, comorbidities, or treatment reviews.

What It Means for Our Patients

Not every doctor at our clinic will be offering ADHD diagnosis or stimulant prescribing. Only those who have completed the appropriate training and are comfortable with this style of care will take this on.

For participating doctors:

• It is a multi step process, not a one off appointment.
  Expect two to three consultations for diagnosis. More if your history is complex or overlaps with other conditions.
• There will be questionnaires.
  Standardised rating tools are part of the assessment and must be completed.
• Extra information may be needed.
  School reports, psychologist letters, past prescriptions, collateral from family, or mental health history may be requested.
• Referral to a psychiatrist may still be required.
  If your case is unclear, complex, or higher risk, your GP will involve a specialist.
• No one will prescribe stimulants at the first consultation.
  This applies to new and historical diagnoses. Medication begins only when the assessment is complete.

If You Have Been Diagnosed Before

If you have a confirmed diagnosis and have previously taken stimulant medication, most of our participating GPs will be able to continue prescribing once they have reviewed your documentation and ensured it meets Queensland requirements.
ADHD Assessment and Management at Our Clinic
Please bring as much information as you can, including previous letters, medication history, psychiatric assessments, old scripts, and any relevant medical notes.

Starting Medication

Beginning or adjusting ADHD medication takes time. You may need several follow up appointments to:

• adjust your dose
  • monitor side effects
  • check blood pressure, pulse, appetite, and sleep
  • determine effectiveness
  • select the right formulation

Once stable, you will move to regular reviews at the appropriate intervals.

Living With ADHD

Diagnosis is only the beginning. Your GP will help you understand how ADHD affects your day to day life, including work and study, routines, emotional patterns, sleep, relationships, and lifestyle strategies. Medication can help, but it is only one part of managing ADHD safely and effectively.

What We Ask of Patients

To keep your care safe and efficient, we ask that you:

• attend all booked appointments
  • complete questionnaires before your visit
  • upload any requested documents promptly
  • book face to face appointments for diagnosis and medication commencement
  • understand that prescribing is not guaranteed
  • recognise that this is a structured, evidence based process

Our GPs will work with you openly and transparently every step of the way.