ADHD referrals for over-25s are once again available in Coventry and Warwickshire.
NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) has reopened referral routes for ADHD and autism patients of all ages.
The ICB paused ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) assessments for over-25s a year ago because the system was ‘not working effectively’, causing a backlog of thousands of children awaiting assessment – some of whom faced a 10-year wait for diagnosis.
Patients of all ages can now seek an ADHD assessment.
An ICB spokesperson said: “The decision on whether a referral is made will be based on clinical need and functional impact alone.
“Patients who believe they have ADHD or autism should contact their GP and make an appointment.”
Patients who are referred for both ADHD and autism will also receive a dual assessment where deemed to be clinically appropriate – reducing waiting times and the number of appointments needed, and helping doctors to better understand patients’ full neurodevelopmental profile.
However, the ICB acknowledged that waiting lists were still too long.
The spokesperson said: “Waiting times for ADHD and autism assessments vary significantly depending on the provider and referral pathway, and remain extremely long, particularly for ADHD.
“Within the NHS, adult ADHD assessment waiting times are typically between three and six years, while children may wait between five and ten years.
“For autism assessments, children and young people wait around two years on average, with adult waiting times slightly longer.
“The ICB is working closely with partner organisations to address this, supported by the new policy and quality framework. This is not unique to Coventry and Warwickshire, and patients across the country face similarly long waits.”
ADHD is a condition that affects people’s behaviour, causing restlessness, trouble concentrating, and impulsive actions. While most cases are diagnosed in childhood, there are a growing number of adults seeking diagnosis.
The ICB has created a new webpage which provides more detail and a series of frequently asked questions. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3ubvy7dx for more information.
SUPPORT is available in Warwickshire for children or young people who are waiting for an ADHD assessment.
Dr Will Taylor, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Coventry and Warwickshire ICB, said: “There is a range of advice, early intervention and community support available locally to help manage symptoms and support day-to-day functioning.
“We would encourage families to access these resources at the earliest opportunity. Early support can play a key role in improving wellbeing, reducing escalation of need, and supporting better longer-term outcomes.”
Visit https://tinyurl.com/4b68cdzb for more information.
