WA Faces Calls too Expand ADHD Diagnosis Access as Specialist GPs Report Waitlists
PERTH, WA – Calls are growing for Western Australia to further ease restrictions around ADHD diagnosis, as specialist GPs report significant waitlists and families struggle to access timely assessments for their children. The push comes as awareness of ADHD increases and more families seek support, highlighting a gap in service availability.
Currently, diagnosing ADHD in WA typically requires referral to a paediatrician or psychiatrist – specialists already facing high demand. This creates lengthy wait times,possibly delaying crucial interventions and impacting a child’s educational and developmental progress. “Just having the knowledge that she dose have ADHD, it means that the teacher’s unconscious bias is lifted,” said Sarah Jackson, whose daughter Ayla is awaiting diagnosis. “Without that thay just get labelled as the arduous child in class … it’s about awareness.”
The issue is notably pressing for young children. Ms Jackson explained that an early diagnosis would allow Ayla, who struggles with transitions in kindergarten, to receive the support needed to fulfil her potential. “It would allow me and the school to then put scaffolding in place for her, so she doesn’t fall behind,” she said. “The older that they get, the harder it is for them to have to catch up.”
Advocates argue that appropriately trained GPs should be empowered to diagnose ADHD, streamlining the process and reducing pressure on specialist services. This would align WA with other states and territories where GPs play a greater role in initial assessments. While some GPs are already equipped to provide diagnoses, broader training and clear guidelines are needed to expand access across the state.