NSW health reform to expand ADHD diagnosis through trained GPs
New South Wales is set to introduce a major healthcare reform allowing specially trained general practitioners to diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a responsibility previously limited to psychiatrists and paediatricians. The policy aims to improve access to diagnosis while reducing long waiting times and financial barriers faced by patients seeking neurodevelopmental assessments.
The reform forms part of broader efforts to streamline mental health care pathways, with many patients historically required to undergo multiple specialist consultations before receiving a diagnosis. These processes have often resulted in substantial out-of-pocket expenses and delayed treatment, particularly affecting adults and women whose symptoms may have been overlooked.
Health professionals say the change could significantly ease pressure on specialist services while enabling earlier diagnosis and intervention. Earlier policy measures allowing trained GPs to manage repeat ADHD medication prescriptions have already demonstrated improvements in affordability and continuity of care for families.
Despite the reform, experts note that autism assessments remain complex and costly, with continued calls for expanded Medicare support, increased funding, and further clinician training to address ongoing diagnostic gaps. The initiative is expected to strengthen accessibility and affordability across neurodevelopmental health services while supporting improved patient outcomes.
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