Why has the Berkshire ADHD service stopped new referrals?

The ADHD service has stopped new referrals because the number of incoming applications significantly exceeds its capacity, making the situation unsustainable and potentially impacting patient safety.

What is the current average wait time for an ADHD assessment?

Across the NHS, the average wait time for an ADHD assessment is currently eight years for adults and four years for children.

Will patients currently receiving ADHD medication be affected by the referral pause?

No, patients currently on ADHD medication will continue to receive their care without any changes.

Home / Health / ADHD Services Halt New Referrals Amid Overload

ADHD Services Halt New Referrals Amid Overload

3 Dec

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Summary

ADHD service faces referral surge, exceeding annual capacity monthly.
Average adult ADHD wait times now stand at eight years.
New referrals are temporarily stopped to ensure patient safety.

ADHD Services Halt New Referrals Amid Overload

A critical overload has forced an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) service to temporarily halt new referrals. The trust overseeing the service indicated that the current influx of referrals surpasses the original annual commission by a significant margin each month, rendering the situation unsustainable.

This measure is being implemented to safeguard existing patients by allowing the service to concentrate on those already under its care. For adults, the average wait time for an ADHD assessment has regrettably stretched to eight years, a statistic underscoring the severe strain on national healthcare resources.

The trust assures that patients currently on medication, those transitioning from child to adult services, and those already in the assessment pipeline will not be affected. The service aims to redesign its operations to better meet demand and plans to reopen for new referrals once stability and sustainability are achieved.