Last week, the NSW Government made important changes to the accessibility of ADHD medication.
Coming into effect now, they allow trained GPs to prescribe ongoing medicines for their patients previously diagnosed with ADHD.
These critical reforms are the first step in boosting accessibility for essential ADHD care in NSW.
This is part of my government's plan to increase access to healthcare regardless of where you live.
These changes have been broadly supported, with 1,330 GPs already putting up their hand to take part.
62 GPs have already completed the required training and are now classed as continuation prescribers for this critical medicine.
Unfortunately, most people seeking ADHD care must navigate a costly and overloaded specialist system.
These patients experience long wait times and high fees which can delay treatment, especially those who need it most, children.
These delays can have a significant impact on a child's development, such as delayed academic progress, mental health challenges and fewer later in life employment opportunities.
The second stage of these reforms will allow GPs to prescribe psychostimulant medicines, support paediatricians and psychiatrists, and allow stable patients to access their GP for continuing management and medication.
12 years of Liberal-National government, underinvestment and privatisation left us with a wide of problems in the health system.
My government is now building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income.
No more waiting lists and no more reaching for your credit card to access essential healthcare.
Having a GP who you know and trust is the best way to be physically and mentally healthy.
This is why my government is now training GPs to provide holistic, lifelong and accessible care for people living with ADHD need.
These reforms are commonsense changes which we hope can break the cycle of people having to wait years for what can be a life changing diagnosis.
This is the start of a new chapter in ADHD care in NSW.
This means a faster, fairer and more affordable care system for thousands of people across the state.
