About medication
Find out how ADHD medication is managed, including the role of Shared Care Agreements between patients, GPs, and specialists.
About medication
How does medication help?
Many neurodivergent conditions are managed without medication. However, medication can help people with ADHD pay attention during tough tasks like exams, driving, or at work.
Update from NHS Kent and Medway on prescribing ADHD medication for children and young people
NHS Kent and Medway understands there are some concerns about GPs being able to prescribe ADHD medication for children and young people under Shared Care Agreements.
A Shared Care Agreement is an agreement between the patient, their GP practice, and their specialist care provider. It enables a GP to accept responsibility for the safe prescribing and monitoring of specialist medicines, such as ADHD medications.
We are aware of the prescribing issue and are working with everyone involved to create a solution that enables GPs to safely continue prescribing ADHD medication. We understand this situation will be causing some anxiety so we will update patients as soon as possible.
Please visit www.kmhealthandcare.uk/about-medication for the latest updates.
Shared care
What is a Shared Care Agreement?
A Shared Care Agreement is an agreement between you, your GP practice, and your specialist care provider.
Shared care is a formal agreement that enables your GP to accept responsibility for the safe prescribing and monitoring of specialist medicines, such as ADHD medications.
The Shared Care Agreement means that when the specialist provider has started prescribing your medicine, it can be continued by your GP practice, providing your condition is stable.
Does my GP have to accept a Shared Care Agreement?
No, your GP is not under any obligation to undertake shared care so we would advise discussing this with your GP before a referral is made to a specialist provider.
For your GP to prescribe ADHD medicines, the provider will also need to support your GP with advice and guidance should there be a change in your condition or your response to the medication. The provider will also need to be able to provide ongoing monitoring as needed.