From 1 February 2026, changes introduced by the Government allow General Practitioners (GPs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to diagnose ADHD and prescribe stimulant medications for patients aged 18 years and over.
Important clarification
There has been some misunderstanding about what these changes mean in practice. The new framework does not mean that ADHD assessments or stimulant medication will be available following a brief or routine GP appointment.
To diagnose ADHD under the new framework:
- GPs and Nurse Practitioners must complete additional accredited training
- The process requires:
- An initial long consultation
- Follow‑up appointments
- Significant clinical documentation and review time
This represents a substantial increase in workload for GPs and Nurse Practitioners and would reduce the availability of routine appointments for other patients.
There is also no public funding for ADHD assessments in general practice. As a result, the out‑of‑pocket cost to patients would typically exceed $1,000–$2,000.
ADHD services at Doctors on Riccarton
At this time:
- Doctors on Riccarton does not provide ADHD diagnostic assessments
- We do not currently have providers undertaking the additional training required to offer this service
We will continue to:
- Provide information and guidance
- Offer referrals to external providers, such as Psychologists and Psychiatrists, as we have done previously
If you already have an ADHD diagnosis
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD by a suitably qualified practitioner:
- Your regular GP or Nurse Practitioner may be able to prescribe ADHD medication
- This will be determined following a clinical consultation with you, and if prescribing is considered appropriate
