This content has been automatically generated from the original PDF and some formatting may have been lost. Let us know if you find any major problems.
Text in this format is not official and should not be relied upon to extract citations or propose amendments. Please see the PDF for the official version of the document.
Deputy Lyndsay Feltham Minister for Social Security
BY EMAIL
14th August 2024 Dear Minister,
Health and Social Security Panel
Review of Prescription of Medication for ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
You may be aware that the Health and Social Security Panel has agreed to undertake a review of the prescription of medication for ADHD.
The Terms of Reference of the review are as follows:
- To evaluate the current procedures and frequency for prescribing ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) medication
- To identify any obstacles in the prescribing of ADHD medication
- To assess the impact of any obstacles on patient wellbeing and overall health
- To evaluate any shortage of ADHD medication and review how this could be mitigated, if at all
We are aware that ADHD medication cannot be prescribed by a GP and can only be distributed by a specialist. As part of our evidence gathering, we have heard from members of the public who have confirmed that this process has caused delays in obtaining medication with some having to go without for periods of time. We would be grateful if you could provide us with the following information:
- What is the process around recommending the addition (or deletion) of a drug to the community prescription register?
- Is there a particular reason as to why ADHD medication is exempt from this register?
- What provision, if any, is given from the Health Insurance Fund (HIF) to fund medication for ADHD?
- The Panel has been made aware that most people on the ADHD waiting list have little choice but to see a private consultant. Whilst GP appointment costs have been reduced in the last few months and given the waiting list is up to 2 years for an ADHD assessment, are there any plans for payment subsidies to be given to those currently on the ADHD waiting list to assist with private appointments and/or ADHD medication? If not, has this been considered?
- Can you confirm if discussions have taken place regarding changes as to how ADHD medication can be prescribed by GP's, and if so, could you provide an update?
We note the Terms of Reference from the Pharmaceutical Benefit Advisory Committee (PBAC) and have been advised that the PBAC makes recommendations to the Minister for Social Security regarding community prescription medicines. We have copied this letter to the PBAC for information.
We would be grateful for a response to the above questions by Friday 30th August 2024.
We look forward to working with you and thank you in advance for your assistance on this issue.
Yours sincerely,
Deputy Louise Doublet
Chair, Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel
cc Pharmaceutical Benefit Advisory Committee (PBAC)