ADHD FAQs

GPs and ADHD in NSW

Can a GP diagnose ADHD in NSW?

Yes. Diagnostic assessment and permission to prescribe are separate. An endorsed GP can assess and diagnose ADHD, and start medication within the NSW rules. 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. Ask the practice whether its GP offers diagnostic assessment and who would start medication if needed.

What is an endorsed ADHD GP?

A GP who has completed NSW endorsement training to initiate and manage ADHD medication within the NSW rules. Endorsed GPs can also assess and diagnose ADHD, but endorsement is not exclusive permission to provide a diagnostic assessment. GPs who are not endorsed may still offer assessment without being able to initiate medication.

Can a GP prescribe ADHD medication in NSW?

An endorsed GP can start and adjust ADHD medication within the NSW rules. 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.

Is Dr Saini an endorsed ADHD GP?

Yes. Dr Jaspreet Saini is endorsed for ADHD assessment, diagnosis and treatment in NSW, and practises at Rosedale Medical Practice in West Pennant Hills.

How do I find an endorsed ADHD GP?

Ask the practice directly whether a GP is endorsed for ADHD assessment and treatment. The article Finding an ADHD GP in NSW lists other questions worth asking.

Do I still need a psychiatrist?

Many people do not. Psychiatrists remain important for complex situations, an unclear diagnosis, or other conditions that need specialist care. Good GP-led care has a clear plan for when to involve one.

Assessment

What happens in an ADHD assessment?

A structured conversation about attention, organisation and restlessness, now and in childhood, along with sleep, mood, physical health and family history. Questionnaires are usually part of it. You receive a written outcome at the end.

What should I bring to an ADHD assessment?

School reports if you have them, a list of current medicines, and examples of how ADHD affects work, study or home. Input from a parent, sibling or partner is often helpful.

Can adults be diagnosed with ADHD?

Yes. Many adults are diagnosed for the first time in their twenties, thirties or later. ADHD begins in childhood, so the assessment looks for signs that were present early, even if they were never named.

Does Dr Saini assess children for ADHD?

Not currently. Dr Saini has chosen to offer ADHD diagnostic assessments for adults only for now. This is his current clinical scope, not a statement about what all endorsed GPs can do.

What if the assessment does not find ADHD?

The written outcome should explain what else might account for your symptoms, such as anxiety, low mood or a sleep problem, and what to do next.

Treatment and medication

What are the treatment options for adult ADHD?

Medication, practical strategies, psychological support and care for any other conditions. Most people use a combination. The article ADHD treatment for adults explains how the parts fit together.

Do I have to take medication?

No. Treatment may or may not include medication. You and your GP decide together.

Can Dr Saini provide ADHD medication care for children?

Yes. Dr Saini can start, continue or restart ADHD medication for children, subject to clinical assessment and NSW prescribing requirements. This does not mean he offers children's diagnostic assessments. Children receiving this care require an annual in-person clinical review. Individual eligibility and appointment details are managed by Rosedale Medical Practice.

What does my GP check while I am on ADHD medication?

Blood pressure, heart rate, sleep, appetite, weight and mood, plus whether the medication is still helping with what it was started for.

How long does it take to find the right dose?

Usually a few months. The first dose that seems to work is rarely the final one, so regular reviews are expected early on.

Why do ADHD scripts sometimes run late?

Common causes are a review booked too late, a prescriber who cannot change the treatment, or pharmacy stock. Booking the next review before the current script runs low prevents most delays.

Ongoing care

I already have an ADHD diagnosis. Can a GP take over my care?

Often, yes. Bring your specialist letter and medication details. An endorsed GP can continue and adjust treatment within the NSW rules. At Rosedale Medical Practice, ongoing care is also provided by ADHD Continuation Prescribers Dr Nicky Kathuria, Dr Natasha Paul, Dr Priya Ashwath and Dr Michael Lin.

How often will I see my GP for ADHD?

More often while the dose is being settled, then at regular reviews. Your GP will set a schedule that suits your treatment.

Where can I see Dr Saini?

At Rosedale Medical Practice in West Pennant Hills. Bookings, fees and eligibility are on the Rosedale site, linked from Find ADHD care.

Does Dr Saini accept referrals from psychiatrists and psychologists?

Yes. Dr Saini accepts referrals from psychiatrist and psychologist colleagues. Referrals are coordinated through Rosedale Medical Practice. A referral or psychologist's report supports the clinical assessment but does not guarantee medication or replace the prescribing clinician's own assessment.