People across NSW are finally getting easier, faster access to their ADHD medication thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s landmark reforms.
Since 1 September, over 2,900 patients with an existing diagnosis for ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) have already filled their scripts through a trained GP.
This means people are avoiding long waits, expensive appointments and the barriers that previously delayed treatment for thousands of families.
Under the reforms, 560 GPs across NSW have now completed specialist training and are approved to prescribe ADHD medications. This includes more than 200 GPs located outside metropolitan Sydney.
People can now get the care they need from the clinician who already knows them best, close to home, and without the stress and cost of navigating an overloaded specialist system.
Delays in care can have significant impacts on children’s development, such as poorer academic progress.
These reforms provide more accessible ADHD care across the state as part of the Minns Labor Government’s plan to increase access to healthcare regardless of where you live.
GPs can apply to become a continuation prescriber by completing an endorsed training course, with the associated fee covered by NSW Health.
These reforms recognise the holistic care that is best delivered in a general practice setting, providing support that looks at the whole patient and considers their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing needs.
GPs will continue to make specialist referrals, and escalate care, as required to ensure patients are receiving the treatment they need, when and where they need it.
More information is available at ADHD care in general practice, and GPs with any questions are encouraged to contact MOH-ADHDreforms@health.nsw.gov.au
the Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns:
“More than 2,900 patients have already received their prescriptions through a GP.
“Every script filled by a GP means less waiting and less cost for people with ADHD. These reforms are already making a difference.
“We’re building a health system that works for people, not the other way around. This is about fairness and access. Getting the right care from the right clinician, without unnecessary cost or delay.”
Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“I’m so pleased to see such positive feedback from the more than 560 GPs who’ve already completed this training and accreditation.
“Having 2,900 patients visit an accredited GP to get their script for their ADHD medication refilled, means 2,900 people avoiding the lengthy wait times and costs they used to encounter.
“Our reforms create a win-win situation. By allowing patients to get the care they need, often closer to home and at a reasonable cost, we also free up extra capacity in our system to help more people.”
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:
“In just a few months we are already seeing the difference these reforms are making. Thousands of people are getting care faster and hundreds of GPs are stepping up to support their communities. This is exactly what good reform looks like.
“We are building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income. No more waiting lists just to refill your script.
“Within just a few months, we’ve seen thousands of people save time and money by getting their scripts at the GP. That’s also thousands of specialist appointments freed up for people who actually need them.”
RACGP NSW & ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman:
“We can make ADHD care as accessible as it should be. GPs are specialists in family medicine and holistic care who already help patients with ADHD build good habits around exercise and sleep, develop behavioural strategies, and provide patients access any extra support they need.
“Becoming a continuation prescriber for ADHD is a natural extension of the skills we already bring as specialist GPs. ADHD is a common condition, and one your GP can and should manage.
“The training is excellent, straightforward, and free for RACGP member GPs. The Premier, Health Minister, and our colleagues in psychiatry and paediatrics have all provided fantastic support throughout this rollout and as we move towards a nationally consistent program so more Australians can access ADHD care through their GP.”