ADHD training 'could reduce waiting list stress'

The panel found current regulations were contributing to lengthy waiting lists

Providing additional ADHD training for health staff could help reduce waiting list stress, a States of Jersey scrutiny panel has found.

The Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel launched a review in July due to the island's prescribing regulations which mean ADHD medication can only be prescribed by a specialist consultant psychiatrist.

In other jurisdictions, GPs and other trained staff can issue repeat prescriptions once treatment has been established.

The panel said the situation was contributing to lengthy waiting lists for an assessment, which, at present, was about three-and-a-half years.

People 'let down'

Jersey's Health Department currently has one specialist consultant psychiatrist who can assess and diagnose islanders on the waiting list.

The panel concluded that, if more staff were appropriately skilled to issue the medication, it would alleviate the pressure on the consultant psychiatrist.

The panel agreed to strongly recommend the health minister implemented such a training programme for nurses.

A second recommendation was also agreed that a clinic or hub was established where ADHD patients could pick up their medication and seek advice when they needed it.

Deputy Louise Doublet, chairwoman of the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel, said: "It is clear to the panel that people who have shared their experiences with us feel let down by the current system.

"They are frustrated with the long wait for a diagnosis and lack of communication regarding, not only that, but the impact the global shortage of ADHD medication could have on them.

"While there is little that Jersey can do to improve the situation regarding the shortage, we can remove some of the other obstacles people are facing."