Australia’s leading psychiatry body is urging the federal government to create a national system for monitoring attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses and prescriptions. The call comes amid growing concern over inconsistent practices between states and a sharp rise in medication use.
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) has released a new position statement on ADHD care. It calls for clear national guidelines, mandatory training for general practitioners (GPs), and improved collaboration between doctors and psychiatrists. The college warns that without a unified approach, patients could face misdiagnosis and inappropriate stimulant use.
Varying Reforms Across States
From December 1, Queensland will become the first state to allow specialist GPs to diagnose and prescribe medication to adults with ADHD. Other states, including New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia, plan to follow with similar models, though training requirements vary widely.
RANZCP President Dr. Astha Tomar said data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare showed prescriptions for ADHD medication have risen elevenfold over two decades, with the fastest growth among adult women. She cautioned against prioritizing quick consultations over proper assessments.
“Diagnosing ADHD is not a five-minute process,” Dr. Tomar said. “A full psychiatric evaluation can take at least 45 minutes and is vital to ensure accuracy.”
Risks of Over-Diagnosis and Misuse
Dr. Angelo Virgona, RANZCP president-elect, said ADHD symptoms often overlap with other conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. He warned that brief consultations or symptom checklists are not enough for a reliable diagnosis.
While acknowledging the effectiveness of stimulants for ADHD, Dr. Virgona emphasized the risks of side effects, including appetite suppression, sleep problems, and psychological complications. He urged GPs to consider non-stimulant medications and psychological therapies as part of treatment.
Push for National Oversight
From early 2026, Western Australia will train a select group of GPs to diagnose and prescribe ADHD medication for patients aged 10 and older. South Australia is preparing up to 100 trained practitioners for similar responsibilities by February 2026. New South Wales is also preparing reforms that would allow GPs to diagnose and treat both children and adults.
Dr. Virgona said the expanding role of GPs must be supported by structured supervision and referral pathways to psychiatrists. “We need to get the training right and ensure GP networks have access to a psychiatrist online or in person for complex cases,” he said. “Consistency across states is essential to maintain both safety and public trust.”
Related topics
Coffee Intake May Slow Biological Ageing in Mental Illness Patients
Mental Illness Linked to First Single Gene Found by Scientists
Bozeman Launches New Mental Health Treatment Center To Support Recovery
