New model of management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by trained general practitioners: Prospective cohort study in 207 children.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Australian children are increasing, and assessment wait times remain long. Expanding diagnosis and management to upskilled general practitioners (GPs) has been proposed, but evidence is limited. To describe the referral pathways, wait times and medication outcomes in the first 207 children diagnosed with ADHD in 2023-26 by four GPs trained in ADHD management in Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, New South Wales.

METHOD: Prospective cohort study evaluating an integrated model of ADHD care delivered in two general practices. GPs diagnosed 207 children aged 4-17 years, mean age 11 years (112 boys, 91 girls, 4 non-binary).

RESULTS

The majority of participants (57%) were referred by GPs from other practices. Median time to first appointment was 3 weeks. Of 121 children currently stabilised on medication, 118 were prescribed stimulants. Among 85 with serial teacher ratings, inattention hyperactivity with aggression (IOWA Conners) scores improved significantly (P<0.001). Five children were referred to other specialists (paediatrics/psychiatry).   DISCUSSION: These preliminary findings suggest that trained GPs might deliver timely and effective ADHD care in primary care settings.