NSW reforms to see trained GPs treat and diagnose ADHD
The NSW Government has announced reforms that will enable GPs to provide ongoing ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) prescriptions for those on stable doses of medication, with a smaller number of GPs to be enabled to diagnose and initiate medication, where appropriate. GPs will be required to undertake accredited training and will receive support in both instances, with expressions of interest for GPs to undertake additional education and training requirements to be sought in coming months. These reforms will, the government said, save patients both months of waiting as well as significant costs in accessing treatment.
“By safely training more GPs to treat and diagnose ADHD, we are hoping to break the cycle of people having to wait years for, what can be, a life-altering diagnosis,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said. “Not getting diagnosed and not being able to access treatment can have a particularly big impact on a child getting the most out of their life, whether that’s academically or socially.” Minns adding: “These reforms help tilt the scales in favour of fairness – reducing the cost of getting treatment by hundreds of dollars, removing red tape for thousands of families and young people, and giving people the support they need to live happier, healthier lives.”
NSW is the third state to implement reforms to make it easier for people to access treatment for ADHD. Certain ADHD medications for children can be prescribed by GPs in Queensland without a prescribing approval, while in WA, it has been proposed to allow patients to receive a diagnosis and treatment from specialist GPs with specific skills and additional training in ADHD diagnosis and management. The government said GP training will commence in the coming months, with it expected that the ability for GPs to provide ongoing prescriptions for children to come in early 2026.
For those GPs interested, a choice will be available between two tiers of accredited training or registration, with each providing differing levels of capacity to diagnose, treat, prescribe or manage ADHD. The government said that up to 1000 GPs will be supported to complete additional training to allow continuation prescriptions once a patient has been stabilised, with NSW Health to fund these training packages and mentorship and access to resources to access the implementation of the reforms.
The Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA) welcomed the reforms, while urging a focus on accurate diagnosis and quality GP education. “The expansion of GP roles in ADHD care is a positive and necessary step — but it’s essential that we keep accurate diagnosis at the heart of this process. Getting it right matters for every child, every adult, and every family involved,” AADPA President, Professor David Coghill, said. Paediatrician and AADPA Vice President, Dr Sarah Lovett, saying: “We’re not just opening new doors to treatment — we’re helping to build a stronger, more informed health system where GPs are equipped with the right tools, and supported by clear guidelines, strong training and access to specialist advice.”
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