Young adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are suddenly finding themselves unable to access treatment as they transition from children’s to adult’s services because services do not link up effectively, according to new research.
The national survey conducted by the University of Exeter found there was a huge variation in treatment and shared-care prescribing of ADHD medication via primary care. This was a particular problem when young people move to adult mental health services. This was despite guidelines published by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommending that primary care practitioners prescribe medication for adult ADHD under shared-care agreements with adult mental health services.
More than 40% of survey respondents also reported waiting times of two years or more for an appointment with adult mental health services meaning the responsibility for providing care falls on GPs. Yet GPs who were surveyed felt they were not sufficiently supported to prescribe in this way and had concerns around insurance and liability.
It is a particular problem for patients with a private diagnosis of ADHD, and leaves GPs unable to provide effective care. This can include removing access to medication, despite the treatment having been successful during childhood.
The survey found that issues with access to treatment for ADHD are also worst for some underserved groups, such as young women, and young people leaving care, which is increasing health inequalities.
Dr Anna Price, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, said: “Our findings highlight the need for a coordinated approach to address problems that lead to a postcode lottery for patients trying to access treatment for ADHD. GPs and other primary care professionals really need better support so that they can provide shared care prescribing of ADHD medication in line with UK guidelines.
“We know that failing to treat ADHD can have a huge impact. Turning 18 is often a crucial and sensitive time in life, and our research shows that lack of treatment at this time can be particularly damaging for young people who are learning to self-manage their health needs, at the same time as perhaps sitting important exams, leaving home for the first time, and embarking on careers or university study.”
More than 750 people from across the country – including commissioners, healthcare professionals working in primary care, and people with lived experience of ADHD – completed the survey. The results were published in the British Journal of General Practice.
