Young adults are being let down by a “postcode lottery” for ADHD treatment, according to a new study.
Researchers found a “huge” variation in care for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients in a nationwide survey.
They say their findings, published in the British Journal of General Practice, highlight the “struggle” many young adults face once they turn 18.
The University of Exeter research team warned that the current system is “failing” many young adults as they transition from children’s to adult’s services, suddenly finding themselves unable to access treatment because services do not link up effectively.
More than 750 people – including commissioners, health professionals working in primary care, and people with ADHD – completed the MAP National Survey, which highlights challenges that GPs face when prescribing medication for the debilitating condition.
ADHD affects up to one in 14 children (7%) and up to one in 20 adults (5%), with symptoms including patterns of hyperactivity, impulsivity, or inattention which interfere with functioning in daily life.
Experts say that failure to treat ADHD and gaps in treatment, especially as young people become adults, can have “severe” impacts on patients and families, increasing the risk of mental health crises and difficulties with work, education, and relationships.
According to the research team, the failure also places extra pressure on those working in health services.
The survey found variations in “shared care” agreements between GPs, mental health specialists, and patients, which need to be in place for GPs to prescribe ADHD medications.
The research team says it was a particular problem when young people move to adult mental health services, suggesting the current system lets down adolescents at a critical time in their lives.
Current guidelines recommend that GPs prescribe medication for adult ADHD patients under a shared care agreement with adult mental health services.
However, the survey found that such agreements are not always easy to set up, and evidence suggests that GPs may not feel sufficiently supported to prescribe in that way.
If appropriate support is not in place, some GPs may not prescribe ADHD medication due to concerns around insurance and liability.
The researchers say that that can be a particular problem for patients with a private diagnosis of ADHD, and it leaves GPs unable to provide effective care and many patients without access to the medication they need.
More than 40 percent of the survey participants reported waiting times of two years or more for an appointment with adult mental health services.
That leaves GPs with the responsibility for providing care- but without the support, they need to offer the best care for their patients at a crucial time in their lives, according to the study.
The findings were published as NHS England announced the establishment of a task force and a major review of ADHD services.
Dr. Anna Price, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, said: “Our findings highlight the need for a coordinated approach to address problems that lead to a postcode lottery for patients trying to access treatment for ADHD.
“GPs and other primary care professionals really need better support so that they can provide shared care and prescribe ADHD medication in line with UK guidelines.
“We know that failing to treat ADHD can have a huge impact.
“Turning 18 is often a crucial and sensitive time in life, and our research shows that lack of treatment at this time can be particularly damaging for young people who are learning to self-manage their health needs, at the same time as perhaps sitting important exams, leaving home for the first time, and embarking on careers or university study.”
Dr. Price added, “We welcome the establishment of the NHS England taskforce and is a much-needed step towards better outcomes for people with ADHD.”
Produced in association with SWNS Talker
