Getting my ADHD diagnosis at 41 helped me make sense of things I had spent years blaming myself for. Finding the right care matters, and working out who can provide it should not feel like another hurdle.
Some NSW GPs can now offer broader ADHD care. But what is available depends on the individual GP’s training and approval. A little clarity before booking can save a frustrating appointment.
This guide is for NSW
Access information was last checked on 26 September 2026, using the Agency for Clinical Innovation’s September 2026 guidance. Services and appointments can change, so confirm with the practice. These arrangements are not a single Australia-wide pathway.
What can this particular GP do?
There are three roles worth knowing about. An authorised continuation prescriber can provide ongoing stimulant prescriptions for eligible people with an established diagnosis and stable treatment, with limited changes under the approval’s conditions.
An endorsed prescriber has additional training and a broader approved role. That can include assessing and diagnosing ADHD and starting treatment, including stimulant medicines where appropriate.
Some GPs also prescribe through shared care or transfer-of-care arrangements with a relevant specialist, with the required approval for that patient. [1] [2]
The first two pathways cover eligible people aged six and older. A GP who can continue a prescription is not necessarily able to make a new diagnosis. And one approved GP does not mean everyone at the practice has the same role.
Why the dates matter
Continuation prescribing began for approved GPs on 1 September 2025. Training for endorsed prescribers began in March 2026. Participation is optional. The September guidance did not suddenly give every GP the same authority. [1]
It also describes funded assessments planned at selected practices for early 2027. That is a planned service, not a promise that a free assessment is available now.
What I would ask when booking
For a first assessment: “Does this GP assess and diagnose adult ADHD, or only continue treatment after a diagnosis?”
For ongoing care: “Can they consider taking over my treatment, and what information do they need?”
Then the practical questions: are they accepting new patients, what are the fees and appointment length, is a referral needed, and who handles reviews or changes if the GP is away?
What paperwork might help?
A continuation prescriber needs to verify the earlier diagnosis and that treatment is stable. Ask about your diagnostic report, specialist letters, medicine and dose list, and previous treatment changes or side effects. If something is missing, ask how the practice can help obtain it. [1]
If your diagnosis was made overseas or by an interstate GP, check first. The September FAQ does not accept those diagnoses directly for continuation prescribing and describes further specialist or designated-prescriber involvement.
A place to start
The ACI has a NSW prescriber search. Listings are voluntary and do not guarantee appointments for new patients.
You do not need to know every rule before making the call. “This is what I need help with — can your practice provide it?” is a reasonable starting point.
Check the official guidance
- NSW Agency for Clinical Innovation: ADHD-in-general-practice FAQs ↗September 2026 version · Official service guidance. Access information checked on 26 September 2026.
- ACI: comparison of GP ADHD pathways ↗Official NSW summary of continuation prescribing, endorsed prescribing and co-management or transfer of care.