Global shortage causing ADHD prescription problems

A senior children's health official told the review it was putting additional time pressure on prescribers

The children's mental health service in Jersey is giving out shorter prescriptions due to a global shortage of some ADHD medication.

A review of the way ADHD drugs are prescribed in the island found the shortage meant patients were receiving four weeks worth of some medicines rather than six weeks.

The review by the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel follows concerns about pressure on the island's sole consultant psychiatrist in making repeat prescriptions.

A senior children's health official told the review it was putting additional time pressure on prescribers and was "extremely inconvenient and stressful".

'Stressful'

ADHD is a condition that affects people's behaviour.

It can make them seem restless, and they may have trouble concentrating and can act on impulse.

Richard Dyer, Head of Children’s Health and Wellbeing at CAMHS said: "Having to collect hospital prescriptions monthly is extremely inconvenient and stressful for those leading busy lives.

"Standing in queues with neurodivergent children is stressful for the child and parent/carer."

He added duty doctors could receive between 15 and 20 prescription requests a day for repeat ADHD medications.

'Nightmare' ordering medication

One Jersey parent said ordering and accessing medication for her child with ADHD was a "nightmare".

Other responses to the review said the waitlist for an ADHD diagnosis was "unacceptable" and the cost of private prescriptions was "disgusting".

The Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel said its aim was to evaluate the current procedures for prescribing ADHD medication and the impact any delay of prescriptions may have on the patients' health and well being.

Members of the public who wish to share their views can make a submission via email to [e-mail], or by writing to the Health and Social Security Panel at Morier House, Halkett Place, St Helier, JE1DD.