Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that can interfere with daily life and relationships, including work or school performance. ADHD is not simply a behavioural issue, but a medical condition that can be managed with the right support and treatment.
You can read more about ADHD on the NHS website here.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of ADHD that affect daily life, it’s important to seek help. Our GPs can guide you through the process and, if required, refer you to specialist services.
ADHD is often seen in people who have other significant clinical problems, such as substance abuse, unstable mood swings, anxiety, depression or personality disorders.
Please read the information below to understand your options if you would like to be referred to an ADHD specialist.
How can I access a referral?
If you are concerned you may have ADHD you should make an appointment with the GP to discuss your concerns. Dr Fakhoury is our ADHD and neurodiversity lead at the practice and has an interest in this area.
Please note; GPs are unable to make a diagnosis of ADHD or start any ADHD medications.
You will need to decide which route you want to be referred into for a formal assessment. The options would be via the Leeds ADHD clinic available here (currently closed to new referrals) or, alternatively, you could access a ‘Right to Choose’ provider.
What is the Right to Choose pathway?
The Right to Choose (RTC) pathway gives patients the right to choose their service provider for mental health and physical health conditions. More information about the NHS Right to Choose pathway can be found here. If the eligibility criteria are met, the NHS will fund your assessment and treatment.
For detailed information on RTC and ADHD pathways click here.
The list of these providers changes, as do their waiting times, so we suggest that you do the research yourself to find the best fit for you. A good starting place is ADHD UK.
If the GP determines that an assessment is required, you can advise them at your appointment that you wish to exercise your right to choose. You must also confirm your choice of Right to Choose service.
Service Choices
There are many different services that you can choose from. These include, but are not limited to the following:
Please be aware, not all RTC providers offer medication titration and keep this in mind when choosing a service.
If you are assessed and diagnosed by a service that does not offer medication under the RTC and you then wish to start medication, you might require a re-referral to an alternative service that provides this.
Shared Care Agreements
At the end of the titration period, a Shared Care Agreement is sent to the GP by the ADHD service. This is an agreement made between the ADHD Specialist and the GP, which enables the GP to take over the prescribing. Most referring GPs are happy to do this, but there is no obligation for them to do so.
ADHD Medication
Please note, in Autumn of 2023, the Government announced there were national supply issues affecting medications for the treatment of ADHD. This shortage was caused by a combination of manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand.
Other Useful Resources:
Click here to access the Mind website.
Click here to access the Leeds ADHD service.