By Dr Jaspreet Saini. Published . Updated .
Last reviewed 2026-10-18
The role of a GP in ADHD care has widened. In NSW, a GP who has completed the state's endorsement training can now assess ADHD, make a diagnosis and start treatment. GPs who are not endorsed may still be able to provide a diagnostic assessment for ADHD. However, they cannot initiate ADHD medication. To continue medication started by a specialist, they must be ADHD Continuation Prescribers. Either way, much of the year-to-year work of living well with ADHD happens in general practice.
Assessment and starting treatment
Assessment may begin with a GP who is not endorsed, although starting ADHD medication requires the relevant prescribing authority. Assessment usually involves a detailed history, standardised questionnaires, information from someone who knew the person in childhood where possible, and consideration of other conditions that can look similar. If treatment is appropriate, the GP and the person agree a plan, including who would initiate medication if needed and what practical strategies may help.
The everyday work
Once treatment is under way, the work becomes steady and regular. Scripts need to be on time. Doses are reviewed. Blood pressure and heart rate are checked, and sleep, mood and appetite are discussed, along with how the medication fits into a working day. Questions about study, work and relationships belong here too, because these are the areas of life ADHD tends to touch.
When a specialist is involved
Some situations call for a psychiatrist or paediatrician. These include diagnostic uncertainty, complex co-occurring mental health conditions, a poor response to treatment, pregnancy planning, or a cardiovascular concern. A good GP-led model makes that referral straightforward and treats the specialist as a partner rather than a gatekeeper.
What good GP-led ADHD care feels like
It feels predictable. The script arrives when it should, the next review is booked before the current one ends, and the GP already knows the history. The person receiving care is no longer the project manager of their own treatment, which for someone living with ADHD is not a small thing.
ADHD is a lifelong condition. The care should feel that way too.
Sources
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Speak with your own doctor about your situation.