Changes to ADHD Medication Prescribing and Monitoring

Changes to ADHD Medication Prescribing and Monitoring

We are committed to providing safe, high-quality care for all our patients. Following recent review, we have introduced an updated policy regarding “Shared Care Agreements” for ADHD medications.

Participation in Shared Care
Participation in shared care is voluntary for GPs, and they are not obligated to enter into these agreements.

Shared care arrangements with Right to Choose providers will be considered where the care provided is in line with Dorset shared care guidelines, and the patient remains under appropriate specialist follow-up.

If a Right to Choose provider stops providing ongoing specialist follow-up for any reason, and does not arrange a safe transfer of care to another appropriate specialist, the shared care agreement will end. Without appropriate specialist oversight, we are unable to continue prescribing ADHD medications for safety and medicolegal reasons.

Why Is This Change Happening?

1. Clinical Expertise and Safety
ADHD medications require specialist knowledge for safe prescribing and monitoring. To ensure patient safety, these medications should remain under the supervision of a specialist who holds overall clinical responsibility.

2. Capacity and Workload
General Practice is currently managing significant demand. Accepting shared care in all cases would impact our ability to provide timely care to all patients.

3. Support and Resources
Shared care arrangements often lack the necessary infrastructure and specialist support, increasing the risk of miscommunication and potential harm.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are currently on ADHD medication under a shared care agreement, there will be no immediate changes to your care.

However, going forward:

• New shared care requests may not be accepted unless they meet the criteria outlined above
• Your ADHD medication and monitoring should remain under your specialist
• If shared care cannot be agreed, your specialist will need to continue prescribing

Your specialist may:

• Arrange for your medication via a hospital pharmacy, or
• Provide prescriptions for dispensing at a community pharmacy

Your Health and Well-being

We understand this change may be concerning. Our priority is to ensure that ADHD medications are prescribed and monitored safely, with appropriate specialist oversight.

If you have any questions, please contact your specialist or clinic in the first instance.

Thank you for your understanding