Physicians welcome landmark ADHD Senate Inquiry report and urge the Federal Government to adopt recommendations
13 November 2023
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) has welcomed the landmark report published by the Senate Inquiry into assessment and support services for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[1] The RACP urges the Federal Government to implement key recommendations the RACP has long advocated for [2], including:
- Supporting medical specialist physicians to work closely with General Practitioners (GPs) to improve the efficiency of ADHD assessments.
- Conduct a review of specific Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) items to help improve the safety and quality of medications prescribed to people with ADHD.
- Ensure that governments at all levels invest in the implementation of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines.
RACP President and Paediatrician Dr Jacqueline Small said that the report and its recommendations provided a framework for the Federal Government to introduce and implement policy initiatives that help improve support services for people living with ADHD across Australia.
“We welcome the report by the Senate Inquiry and congratulate the Senate Community Affairs References Committee on undertaking such a significant and transformational body of work.
“Specialist physicians, especially paediatricians, play a critical role in delivering assessments and support for people with ADHD, and it is very encouraging to see that the Inquiry has adopted our advice.
“The RACP has continually advocated for improving the ways in which ADHD assessments are conducted in Australia and for improving the supports offered to people with ADHD across the country”.
“As the Inquiry rightfully identifies, people with ADHD across Australia continue to face many challenges and hurdles, and it is imperative that these are addressed.
“Concerted efforts also need to be taken to ensure that the specific needs of people with ADHD from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, are met.
“As such, we urge the Federal Government to implement the recommendations laid out in the Inquiry’s report to help ensure that people with ADHD have greater access to the support services they need.
[1] Senate Inquiry - Assessment and support services for people with ADHD – Final Report
[2] RACP’s Submission to the Senate Inquiry