Australians who struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) will soon be able to get better care and treatment after a new guideline was released by the Department of Health and Aged Care.
The Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for ADHD has provided advice on how the disorder should be identified, diagnosed and supported.
The guidelines will focus on giving Australians better knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment options.
Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler says the recommendations, which ranged from family support, medications and further research into the disorder will give someone dealing with ADHD a better trajectory.
“There are 111 clinical recommendations addressing the ADHD journey across a person’s lifespan, from identification and diagnosis to an evolving support plan and information for family, friends, employers, and others in their life,” he said in a media release.
Some key guidelines were providing more support to students that have ADHD in school and tertiary settings, more involvement from GPs, having access to NDIS and having medication be monitored on an ongoing basis.
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting around 800,000 Australians, including one in 20 children.
Last week, NDIS Minister Bill Shorten opened the door to introduce the neurological disorder to the disability scheme. Advocates are pushing for it to be added to the list of primary conditions eligible for support.
This comes while the NDIS budget is expected to increase by $8.8 billion above the current expenditure in 2024-25 drawing criticism from the Coalition over the sustainability of the NDIS.
The disorder can have lifelong impacts on individuals, their families and the community, but an early diagnosis and better treatment options can greatly improve their life.
Labor MP Emma McBride says the new guidelines will help patients gain a better understanding of their diagnosis helping them in the future.
“Earlier diagnosis, better treatment and care will help improve the lives of people living with ADHD so they can reach their full potential,” she said in a media release.
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