Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is under-recognised, under-diagnosed, and under-treated, according to a new report. The findings call for urgent reforms across the healthcare system to address these issues. The independent ADHD Taskforce has emphasized the need for immediate changes to the existing models of care, particularly in England, where the condition is often overlooked and treatment is delayed.
Taskforce Recommendations for Improved ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment
The final report from the ADHD Taskforce advocates for reduced waiting times and equal standards for ADHD diagnosis and treatment, similar to physical health conditions. The report highlights the risks, costs, and equity concerns associated with delayed diagnosis and care. It stresses that ADHD should be recognized as a common condition, with updated diagnostic models and increased involvement of general practitioners (GPs) in both diagnosis and ongoing care.
The Growing Role of General Practitioners (GPs)
One of the key recommendations of the report is to enhance the role of GPs in the management of ADHD. GPs are currently playing a central role in managing other chronic conditions like diabetes and depression, but ADHD care remains limited. The taskforce suggests that GPs should be able to recognize ADHD and ensure that appropriate referrals for further assessment are made. Furthermore, GPs should be trained to conduct initial screening consultations, similar to other health conditions.
Specialist ADHD Practitioner Training for GPs
To address the growing need for ADHD care, NHS England estimates that nearly 2.5 million people in the country may have ADHD, including about 741,000 children and young adults aged five to 24. In response, the taskforce proposes that interested GPs undergo specialist ADHD training, improving their capacity to collaborate with secondary care providers and manage stepped care pathways. Training should be integrated into the GP curriculum and continuing professional development programs.
New Models of Care and Support for ADHD Patients
Professor Anita Thapar, chair of the ADHD Taskforce, emphasized the importance of incorporating ADHD recognition and support into the everyday practice of GPs. Specialist ADHD practitioners can help streamline care, but they need adequate time, training, and funding. The taskforce also recommends establishing “youth wellness hubs” to provide initial support for young people with ADHD and neurodivergence, and expanding school-based programs that address ADHD before formal diagnoses are made.
Challenges and Recommendations for ADHD Care Reforms
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), stressed the importance of adequate funding, protected learning time, and access to specialist services for GPs taking on a larger role in ADHD care. There should also be incentives for GP practices to adopt leadership roles in service development and the provision of ADHD care.
Urgency in Addressing Long ADHD Waiting Lists
Dr. Ulrich Müller-Sedgwick, ADHD champion at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, described the taskforce’s recommendations as a “blueprint” for delivering better ADHD care. A major priority is addressing the long waiting lists, which often leave patients without critical support for extended periods. Introducing waiting time standards for ADHD care on par with those for physical health conditions is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring timely and effective care.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Healthcare Providers
The ADHD Taskforce’s final report advocates for urgent action to reform ADHD diagnosis and treatment in the UK. By improving the role of GPs, enhancing training, and introducing new care models, the taskforce aims to ensure that people with ADHD receive the support they need in a timely and efficient manner. According to the taskforce, inaction is not an option, given the ethical and economic implications of delayed care.
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