Tasmanian GPs will be able to diagnose and treat ADHD from next year, removing a barrier that has forced patients to wait months or travel interstate for specialist care.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said the reforms would require regulatory rather than legislative change, with the Department of Health currently working through consultation and training requirements.
“We know that that’s a significant burden for Tasmanians at the moment, some who are having to either wait or travel interstate,” she told Pulse.
The changes will allow GPs to diagnose, treat and continue managing ADHD patients without specialist referrals.
Tasmania is following New South Wales, which has already adopted a similar approach.
“GPs are really positive about this,” Archer said. “In fact, GPs have advocated very strongly for this for some time.”
She said GPs recognised the current system created barriers for their patients seeking care.
Dr Toby Gardner and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners have been strong advocates for the reform.
The rollout will include training and supervision requirements for GPs to ensure patient safety and appropriate care.
In the meantime, an amendment to the Poisons Act has passed the lower house and is expected to go to the Legislative Council next week.
This interim measure will allow Tasmanians to dispense interstate ADHD prescriptions in Tasmania, providing immediate relief while the broader diagnostic reforms are prepared.
The minister encouraged anyone concerned about their mental health or wellbeing to speak with their GP.
“GPs do a fantastic job in that frontline primary health care in our communities and they are an excellent resource for people to have those conversations with about what their needs are,” she said.
“Have those conversations now because your GP can still help you, can still refer you to the support that you might need.”
