Kenmore Medical Centre ADHD Private Prescribing & Shared Care Policy
Overview and Commitment
At Kenmore Medical Centre, we are dedicated to supporting both children and adults diagnosed with neurodevelopmental conditions, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We recognise that increasing pressure on NHS services has led some patients to seek a private diagnosis and treatment pathway. This policy outlines our approach to acknowledging an ADHD diagnosis and managing ongoing treatment when requested.
Diagnosis and Referral Process
ADHD is a complex condition that can impact many areas of an individual’s life. An accurate diagnosis requires a specialist evaluation, generally conducted by a consultant psychiatrist, as general practitioners (GPs) are not equipped to diagnose ADHD independently. Therefore, patients must be referred to an ADHD specialist who can assess their symptoms. If a diagnosis is confirmed, the specialist may recommend medications to help manage the condition. Given the potential risks associated with these medications, careful monitoring is essential.
Role of Specialist Services and Shared Care Arrangements
Within Cheshire and Mersey, the NHS adult ADHD service is provided by designated specialist teams, and children’s services are managed by specialist providers. Following a confirmed diagnosis, the specialist is responsible for initiating, adjusting, and stabilising the medication regimen. They will also organise an annual review that encompasses an evaluation of ADHD symptoms, medication effectiveness, and a comprehensive physical assessment. Once an optimal and stable dosage has been established, Kenmore Medical Centre may assume responsibility for ongoing prescribing and routine monitoring through a shared care agreement with the NHS specialist. Notably, the prescribing oversight and monitoring responsibility ultimately remain with the specialist.
Private Provider Route and Right to Choose
Patients may exercise their ‘right to choose’ and opt for referral to a private provider. If you choose to be diagnosed privately and then wish for Kenmore Medical Centre to assume prescribing responsibility under a shared care arrangement, please note the following:
- Kenmore Medical Centre will only take on ongoing prescribing under a formal shared care agreement if the patient ensures they have their annual reviews completed, including a physical assessment and a review of their response to the medication.
- This potential transfer of care is subject to our assessment and is not automatically guaranteed. Kenmore Medical Centre reserves the right to decline to assume prescribing responsibility if clinical or administrative factors indicate that a shared care arrangement is not in the best interests of the patient.
We encourage patients to discuss their treatment pathway and ensure all necessary follow-up arrangements are maintained when considering a private diagnostic route.
Referral to Private Providers and Information Sharing
Each private provider has its own referral protocol. If you choose to be referred privately, please consult the respective provider’s website for detailed referral instructions. In some cases, Kenmore Medical Centre may require additional information from you to complete the referral. Please note that failure to provide the requested information promptly could result in the cancellation of your referral request.
Transitioning from Private to NHS Care
If you have been diagnosed by a private service and later wish to transfer your ADHD treatment to the NHS, you will need to undergo a referral process for an NHS mental health specialist. This assessment will be subject to NHS waiting times. Should the NHS specialist determine that you meet the necessary criteria for starting ADHD medication, a shared care agreement may then be established between the NHS specialist and Kenmore Medical Centre.
Further Information
For more information on ADHD, including symptoms, treatment options, and management guidelines, please visit the NHS website at NHS ADHD Overview.