General practitioners in New South Wales will soon be able to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) under new government reforms. This initiative, set to commence in March, aims to improve both the affordability and accessibility of ADHD diagnosis and treatment across the state.
Currently, individuals seeking an ADHD diagnosis must consult a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or paediatrician, which can be both a lengthy and costly process. The new reforms will allow GPs to undergo specialized training to diagnose and manage ADHD, significantly reducing wait times and financial burdens for patients.
Addressing the Challenges of ADHD Diagnosis
The announcement comes as a response to the growing demand for more accessible mental health services. Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a healthcare system where financial constraints do not hinder access to quality treatment.
“The reality is for a lot of people living with ADHD, it was really hard to get diagnosed and to get a prescription for medication, because you had to see a specialist, and the wait times could be up to three, six, 12 months,” Ms. Jackson stated.
She further noted that the costs associated with specialist consultations could reach hundreds or even thousands of dollars, making it difficult for many individuals to afford the necessary care. The reforms aim to alleviate these challenges by enabling GPs to provide initial diagnoses and manage ongoing care.
Support and Concerns from the Medical Community
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed strong support for the reforms. Dr. Rebekah Hoffman, chair of RACGP NSW and ACT, highlighted the prevalence of ADHD, noting that up to 10 percent of children and 6 percent of adults are affected by the condition.
“This is a common condition that can be diagnosed and managed well by a specialist GP with appropriate training,” Dr. Hoffman said. “The reforms announced by the NSW Government will make a huge difference to thousands of patients in our state.”
However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential for misdiagnosis, particularly in distinguishing ADHD from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Alex South, a mental health researcher who was diagnosed with ADHD while studying psychology, acknowledged these concerns but remains optimistic about the changes.
“With appropriate training and guardrails, these changes are ultimately a good thing,” Ms. South commented, noting the importance of ensuring GPs receive comprehensive training.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Impact
The NSW government plans to prioritize training for GPs in rural and underserved areas, ensuring that families can access care closer to home. This initiative builds on previous reforms introduced in September 2025, which allowed GPs to become ‘continuation prescribers’ for ADHD medication, reducing the need for repeated specialist visits.
More than 800 GPs have already been trained under the previous system, benefiting over 5,000 patients. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the changes as life-changing.
“We’re incredibly excited to move to the next stage where GPs can undertake training to actually diagnose ADHD. It’s the next step in building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income,” Ms. Jackson said.
As applications for the new training program open, GPs with questions are encouraged to contact the NSW Ministry of Health for more information. This development represents a significant shift in the approach to mental health care in NSW, promising greater accessibility and improved outcomes for those living with ADHD.
