A national survey conducted in the UK by the University of Exeter has revealed significant discrepancies in the treatment of ADHD, particularly among young adults as they transition from children’s to adult services. The current system is failing many young adults, leaving them unable to access the necessary treatment due to ineffective linking of services. The survey, involving over 750 participants including commissioners, healthcare professionals, and individuals with lived experience of ADHD, highlighted the challenges faced by GPs when prescribing ADHD medication.
ADHD affects a substantial portion of both children and adults, with symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Failure to treat ADHD, particularly during the transition to adulthood, can lead to severe repercussions for patients and their families, including increased risks of mental health crises, difficulties in work and education, and challenges in relationships. The survey identified variations in “shared care” agreements between GPs, mental health specialists, and patients, which are essential for GPs to prescribe ADHD medications. The lack of such agreements, especially during the transition to adult mental health services, indicates a significant gap in the current system.
The survey also found that setting up shared care agreements is not always straightforward, with some GPs feeling unsupported in prescribing ADHD medication. Concerns about insurance and liability may deter GPs from providing the necessary treatment, particularly for patients with a private diagnosis of ADHD. Furthermore, long waiting times for appointments with adult mental health services, exceeding two years in some cases, leave GPs unsupported and unable to provide optimal care to their patients during a critical time in their lives. This can result in the removal of access to medication that had previously been successful during childhood.
Certain underserved groups, such as young women and individuals leaving care, experience even greater challenges in accessing treatment for ADHD, leading to increased health inequalities. The survey results coincide with NHS England’s announcement of a taskforce and a comprehensive review of ADHD services. The establishment of this taskforce signifies a step towards improving outcomes for individuals with ADHD, aiming to provide a more effective and compassionate service from the NHS and broader society. Dr. Anna Price, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to address the issues contributing to a postcode lottery for patients seeking treatment for ADHD.
The University of Exeter has initiated a Science of ADHD and Neurodevelopment collaboration, engaging experts by experience, healthcare providers, and researchers to develop solutions that support individuals with ADHD. These solutions include curated digital interventions and standardized shared care agreement templates, with the goal of empowering individuals with ADHD to thrive. The establishment of the collaboration aligns with the broader efforts to improve access to effective ADHD treatment and support for individuals transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Overall, the survey findings underscore the urgent need for a more cohesive and supportive system to ensure that individuals with ADHD receive the care they require during critical stages of their lives.
