ADHD Diagnosis & Medication prescribing for ADHD

A new national framework for the diagnosis and treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Aotearoa New Zealand was announced by Te Whatu Ora in July 2025. Changes came into effect from February 2026. This is a change to the old system where GPs and Nurse Practitioners could only prescribe ADHD stimulant medicines to patients on a written recommendation from a Paediatrician or Psychiatrist, or after someone has already been diagnosed with ADHD and given a first prescription. From 1st February 2026, General Practitioners & Nurse Practitioners with additional training are able to diagnose ADHD. Also, effective from 1st February 2026, General Practitioners & Nurse practitioners are able to prescribe ADHD medication if a diagnosis has been made by another provider. 

Unfortunately, media coverage and public discussions have led to confusion regarding these changes. Some people have interpreted the announcement to mean that a quick assessment and stimulant medication prescription is automatically available from their regular GP. This is not correct as GPs & Nurse practitioners require additional training to be able to provide this service. Also, this service would require a minimum of a 90 minute consult and an additional follow up appointment as well as extra paperwork time for the provider which create a significant increased workload for GP who are already under considerable pressure.

Currently, Ilam Medical Centre do not provide ADHD assessments and we do not have any providers undertaking additional training at this stage.

We will continue to provide patients with information and referrals to external providers of these services.

If you have a diagnosis of ADHD, your regular GP may prescribe medication if this is appropriate after consultation with yourself.