An inquiry by the Senate into ADHD has found substantial barriers to consistent, timely assessment and support for the condition. Image: Tara Winstead, via Pexels
An inquiry by the Senate into attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has found substantial barriers to consistent, timely and best practice assessment and support for the condition.
The report draws on 700 submissions and the evidence of 79 witnesses across three days of public hearings across the country.
The inquiry makes 15 unanimous recommendations, which largely relate improving the affordability and consistency of ADHD assessment and treatment.
Major barriers for people attempting to access ADHD assessment, diagnosis and support services include a lack of services, long wait times, insufficient access in regional and remote areas, high costs,
Another key area was a lack of financial support for assessment and treatment, including insufficient coverage under Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Other factors reported included poor consumer experiences, a lack of reliable information, inconsistent prescribing regulations, social stigma related to diagnosis and the use of stimulants, lack of support in schools, out of home care and correctional facilities, and specific challenges for key demographics including girls, women and gender-diverse people, First Nations people, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
One witness giving evidence at the Canberra hearing was Christopher Ouizeman, spokesperson for the ADHD Foundation, who said that the findings echoed sentiments within the community.
“For too long, the Australian public health system has not adequately acknowledged ADHD. They generally failed to diagnose it, treat it, and provide medication. Right now, we have cases where waiting lists across Australia for private psychiatrists and specialist paediatricians exceeded 12 months,” said Ouizeman.
“We hope that the comprehensive recommendations made by this inquiry provide as a catalyst for an overhaul in thinking about the debilitating nature of ADHD and the way the condition is now funded.”
Also presenting evidence at the inquiry was the Australian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA), which said it “welcomes and supports” all 15 of the recommendations included in the report.
The government has three months to respond to the inquiry.
The full report can be accessed through the Parliament of Australia website.
