ADHD

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a long-term problem that results in poor concentration and control of impulses. It can affect a child’s learning and social interactions and can have a big impact on family functioning.  It’s estimated one in 20 children in Australia have ADHD.

The main signs and symptoms of ADHD include:

inattention – difficulty concentrating, forgetting instructions, moving from one task to another without completion

impulsivity – acting without thinking, talking over the top of others, losing control of emotions easily, being accident prone

overactivity – constant fidgeting and restlessness.

Some children have ADHD, but without the hyperactivity. These children have trouble focussing and paying attention, and can be forgetful and easily distracted. Sometimes the term ‘inattentive ADHD’ is used to describe this condition.

It is important to remember that all young children have a limited attention span and sometimes do things without thinking, but only a few have ADHD. However, if your child has symptoms of ADHD, which are causing problems for your child, you should have your child assessed for ADHD and related problems.  (Kids Health Information : Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (rch.org.au)

How to book an appointment regarding ADHD?

Our ADHD appointments are for general information, advice, comprehensive referrals, practical tips, parenting support, letters and contact with schools or employers and mental health support. At this point in time (as at Jan 2023), our GP’s are unable to formally diagnose ADHD or prescribe initial dosing of medication for ADHD (as per WA state legislation).

Our GP’s are able to provide practical support and advice including providing a developmental paediatrician or psychiatrist referral, mental health care plan or care plan (if eligible) to support funding for allied health providers.

Some of our GP’s can also offer ‘co-prescribing’ of stimulant medication after the initial script has been provided and dose stabilised, depending on the specialist involved.

New patients (0-15 years)

  • Book a ‘complex kids clinic’ consultation (60 minutes).
  • Complete the HotDoc form sent to you at the time of booking.
  • If previously diagnosed, bring any letters or reports including school letters.
  • If not yet diagnosed, please complete the ‘SNAP’ online screening tool – SNAP-IV Teacher and Parent Rating Scale (18 & 26 Items) Calculator (mdapp.co)
  • Where possible, ask your child’s school teacher to complete this as well.
  • Copy or print the result and bring it with you to the appointment.

Existing patients (0-15 years)

  • For routine reviews of ADHD, book a comprehensive consultation (30 minutes) on HotDoc or through our clinic phone number.
  • If required, the GP may need to write a referral to your paediatrician or psychiatrist requesting co-prescription or to be a co-prescriber for ADHD stimulant medication.
Co-prescription service for children and adolescents with pre-existing ADHD diagnosis (15 and under)

Co-prescribing means your paediatrician or psychiatrist has authorised one of our doctors to prescribe stimulant medication for a certain dose and for a specific period of time.

Consultations for prescribing of ADHD medication take around 30 minutes and will include a history taking regarding progress, physical examination and possible blood testing or further investigation as required.

All ADHD co-prescribing consultations are $150 and will attract a Medicare rebate of $79.70 ($70.30 out of pocket).

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