ADHD care closer to home

A NEW program linking paediatricians with GPs aims to reduce long delays for children seeking ADHD treatment in the Northern Rivers.

The initiative launched at Grafton Base Hospital on September 5 and is expected to free up to 500 paediatrician appointments in Northern NSW Local Health District hospitals over the next two years.

The model gives patients access to treatment closer to home by transferring to their local GP after an initial consultation to confirm the diagnosis.

Head of paediatrics at Grafton Base Hospital, Dr James Hodges, said families had been struggling with long delays in accessing treatment.

“By co-managing care of these children with local GPs, patients will receive timely, quality care in a familiar setting, making it easier for everyone while delivering significant travel and cost savings,” Dr Hodges said.

“The patient’s paediatrician will work with their GP to ensure they are well supported for any challenges that arise related to their ADHD.”

More than 250 children living with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are already being cared for under the model, which was first introduced in September 2024.

The collaboration connects paediatricians with GPs across the region through Healthy North Coast and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.

From 2026, GPs will also be supported to undertake additional training in ADHD to provide ongoing care for their regular patients.

NSW minister for mental health Rose Jackson said the program was part of the biggest reforms to ADHD care in a generation.