ADHD Prescribing Policy

 

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ADHD Medication and Referral Process at Clapham Park Group Practice

Policy statement

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It can have a significant impact on daily life, affecting concentration, impulse control, and energy levels.

In recent years, there has been increased awareness of adult ADHD, leading to more people seeking assessments. However, due to high demand, NHS waiting times for ADHD assessments can be very long, up to five years in some cases.

Many patients opt to seek private assessments to obtain a diagnosis more quickly. While this can be beneficial, it is important to understand how this impacts access to medication through the NHS.

At Clapham Park Group Practice, we follow NHS guidelines regarding the prescription of ADHD medication. Stimulant ADHD medications are classed as controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. They require careful monitoring due to potential side effects, including insomnia, weight loss, increased heart rate, raised blood pressure, and mental health impacts such as anxiety and depression. For children, these medications can also affect growth, necessitating frequent monitoring.

As a practice, we can only prescribe ADHD medication under specific conditions, ensuring that it is done safely and within NHS frameworks.

 

ADHD Referral Routes

Right to Choose (RTC) Scheme:

  • Under this scheme, you can choose from certain organisations for your NHS ADHD assessment.
  • If you opt for this route, you must ensure that the provider you choose offers medication initiation, titration, and ongoing monitoring.
  • If the provider offers these services, we will be able to prescribe medication on their behalf under a “shared care agreement”
  • If the provider does not offer these services, we will not be able to prescribe medication on their behalf.

Private or non-UK ADHD Assessments:

  • If you undergo a private assessment with a provider outside the NHS and RTC scheme, you will not be eligible for an NHS prescription.
  • If you have undergone an ADHD assessment in a non-UK country. you will not be eligible for an NHS prescription.
  • If you wish to receive ADHD medication through the NHS after a private diagnosis, we can refer you into the NHS system, but you will start at the back of the waiting list.
  • This applies even if you already have a diagnosis and are seeking medication only.

Before choosing a referral provider, ensure they can:

  • Prescribe and stabilise your medication.
  • Monitor your physical health as required.
  • Provide annual reviews.

We cannot take on these responsibilities for external providers, as it would not be safe. More information can be found on the ADHD UK website, or by directly contacting the organisation you are considering.

If you have any further questions, please contact the practice.