Victoria to Make ADHD Diagnosis Easier and Cheaper Through GP Training Program
Select GPs will be trained to diagnose and prescribe medication for patients aged six and over
The initiative will see selected Victorian GPs receive specialised training to diagnose and treat ADHD in patients aged six and over. Currently, ADHD diagnosis in Australia typically requires a referral to a psychiatrist or paediatrician, with wait times often stretching to 12 months or more and costs running into thousands of dollars.
The program aims to address a critical gap in mental health services, particularly as awareness of ADHD in adults has grown significantly in recent years. Many adults are now seeking diagnosis after recognising symptoms that went unidentified in childhood.
Health authorities say the trained GPs will follow strict diagnostic protocols and will still be able to refer complex cases to specialists when needed.
Analysis
Why This Matters
ADHD affects an estimated 5-7% of children and 2.5% of adults in Australia. Many go undiagnosed due to cost and accessibility barriers.
Background
The traditional pathway requiring specialist referral has created bottlenecks, with some patients waiting over a year for assessment. Private assessments can cost ,000 or more.
Key Perspectives
Patient advocacy groups have welcomed the move as a breakthrough. Some specialists express caution about maintaining diagnostic rigour, but support expanding access.
What to Watch
Whether other states follow Victoria lead, and how the program affects wait times and diagnosis rates in the first year.