GPs to diagnose ADHD and prescribe drugs for children and adults under NSW reforms

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"NSW to Allow GPs to Diagnose and Prescribe ADHD Medication for Patients"

GPs to diagnose ADHD and prescribe drugs for children and adults under NSW reforms analysis cover image The Guardian 8.4
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/26/gps-to-diagnose-adhd-and-prescribe-drugs-for-children-and-adults-under-nsw-reforms
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AI Analysis Average Score: 8.4
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TruthLens AI Summary

In a significant reform, New South Wales (NSW) will allow general practitioners (GPs) to diagnose and prescribe medication for both children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a first for Australia. Previously, individuals seeking ADHD diagnoses and ongoing medication had to consult specialists, which posed challenges such as high costs and long wait times, particularly in rural areas. This change aims to alleviate these issues by enabling up to 1,000 GPs to provide ongoing prescriptions for patients already stabilized on medication. Additionally, a smaller number of GPs will be trained to diagnose ADHD and initiate treatment where necessary. This initiative was championed by NSW Premier Chris Minns, who emphasized the importance of providing timely access to diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by ADHD.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) expressed strong support for the reforms, highlighting their potential to transform access to ADHD care in NSW. Dr. Rebekah Hoffman, the RACGP’s NSW chair, noted the hardships faced by families traveling long distances and incurring substantial costs for ADHD assessments. The reforms will prioritize prescriptions for children, with a focus on early intervention, which is crucial for their development and success in school. The NSW government plans to seek expressions of interest from GPs for additional training funded by NSW Health in the coming months. While Queensland has allowed GPs to prescribe ADHD medication for children since 2017, the current reforms in NSW mark a significant step towards more accessible ADHD treatment, with ongoing discussions at the federal level regarding national consistency in ADHD medication regulations.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The news article outlines significant reforms in New South Wales (NSW) that allow general practitioners (GPs) to diagnose and prescribe medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both children and adults. This change is particularly noteworthy as it aims to alleviate the long wait times and high costs associated with accessing ADHD care, especially in regional areas.

Purpose of the Announcement

The NSW government's initiative appears to be aimed at improving access to ADHD diagnosis and treatment, making it more convenient for families who currently face substantial barriers. By shifting the responsibility from specialists to GPs, the state hopes to expedite diagnoses and reduce the costs involved in ADHD management. This move is likely designed to resonate positively with the public, particularly parents and families affected by ADHD, as it promises significant improvements in their healthcare experience.

Public Perception and Impact

The announcement is positioned to create a positive perception among the community, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing mental health services. By focusing on the challenges faced by families, such as long travel distances and financial burdens, the government aims to foster goodwill and support for these reforms. The emphasis on early intervention suggests an understanding of the critical nature of timely ADHD treatment, thereby resonating with parents who prioritize their children's well-being.

Transparency and Potential Omissions

While the news focuses on the benefits of the reforms, it may underplay potential challenges, such as the adequacy of training for GPs to diagnose ADHD effectively. Additionally, there could be concerns about the quality of care provided by general practitioners compared to specialists. By not addressing these aspects, the government may be attempting to maintain a positive narrative around the reforms.

Comparative Context

When compared to other news articles addressing healthcare reforms, this one aligns with broader discussions on improving access to mental health services. However, it also distinguishes itself by specifically targeting ADHD, an area that has seen increasing awareness and advocacy in recent years.

Societal and Economic Implications

This decision could have far-reaching implications for the healthcare system in NSW, potentially reducing the burden on specialists and improving overall mental health outcomes within the community. Economically, it may lead to decreased healthcare costs for families, which could enhance their financial well-being. Politically, such reforms may bolster the current government's standing among voters, particularly among parents and those advocating for mental health awareness.

Target Audience

The announcement is likely to gain support from parents, mental health advocates, and rural communities who have historically faced barriers in accessing ADHD care. By addressing the needs of these groups, the government is likely aiming to strengthen its base among constituents who prioritize healthcare accessibility.

Market Implications

This news could impact companies involved in ADHD medications or mental health services, as improved access may increase demand for these products. Pharmaceutical companies may see a rise in their stock prices as a result of anticipated increased prescriptions.

Global Context

In the broader context of global mental health discussions, this reform reflects an evolving understanding of ADHD and a move towards more inclusive healthcare practices. It connects with current global trends emphasizing mental health awareness and accessibility, aligning with ongoing advocacy for better mental health services worldwide.

Use of AI in Writing

The article may have utilized AI tools for drafting or editing, particularly to ensure clarity and engagement in the language used. The straightforward presentation of facts and figures suggests a structured approach often aided by AI models designed for news writing.

Overall, the article presents a largely positive view of the reforms while potentially omitting critical discussions about the implications of training and care quality. The information presented is credible, given the support from relevant medical authorities and the acknowledgment of existing challenges faced by families seeking ADHD treatment.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/26/gps-to-diagnose-adhd-and-prescribe-drugs-for-children-and-adults-under-nsw-reforms

GPs inNew South Waleswill be among the first in Australia to diagnose and provide medication for children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the state government has announced.

Currently, most people seeking a diagnosis, management and ongoing prescription medication for ADHD must see a specialist – often a paediatrician for children or a psychiatrist for adults.

That creates difficulties, critics have said, due to the high costs and long wait lists involved, especially in regional areas.

The NSW reforms should help people like mid-north coast mother Suzanne Grobke,who told the Guardian in Marchthat she was making an eight-hour round-trip to visit a Sydney paediatrician every three months to access ADHD medicine for her 12-year-old daughter.

The government announced on Monday it would enable up to 1,000 general practitioners to provide ongoing ADHD prescriptions for children and adults on stable doses of medication. A smaller number of GPs would be enabled to diagnose and initiate medication where appropriate.

The NSW premier, Chris Minns, said “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”.

The move was welcomed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The college’s NSW chair,Dr Rebekah Hoffman, said: “This announcement will have life-changing impacts when it comes to accessing timely and affordable ADHD care for families across the state.”

Hoffman said she had heard of families in rural areas travelling more than seven hours to see a paediatrician, and families in Sydney spending more than $5,000 on assessments and diagnosis for ADHD.”

“We know when it comes to ADHD that early intervention is vital, and being able to access appropriate therapy and medications from a young age helps kids thrive at school and at home,” she said.

The state government would seek expressions of interest from GPs to undertake additional education and training funded by NSWHealthin the coming months.

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The reforms would be staged, prioritising prescriptions for children because of the significant impact any delay can have on a child’s development. Ongoing prescriptions for children were expected from early 2026.

In Queensland, GPs have been able to diagnose and prescribe ADHD medicine for children but not adults since 2017.Western Australia committed in Februaryto reforms allowing GPs to diagnose and prescribe stimulant medication for ADHD for patients over 10 years of age.

The WA chair of RACGP, Dr Ramya Raman, said GPs in the state would “soon” begin a structured college educational program with 13 hours of online modules and complete workshops led by non-GP specialists.

A 2023 Senate inquiry into ADHD in Australia recommended nationally consistent rules for ADHD medication prescriptions. The proposal was supported by the federal government, but it is yet to commit to national reforms.

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Source: The Guardian