Question 1

Can any NSW GP prescribe ADHD medication?

Accepted Answer

Legally, yes; any registered NSW GP can apply for the appropriate authority to prescribe ADHD medication for a patient with an existing specialist diagnosis. In practice, only a small minority of GPs do this work, because it requires familiarity with the regulatory framework and a practice setup that allows for time-adequate consultations. You need to find a GP who specifically offers this service.

Question 2

Do I need to keep seeing my psychiatrist if my GP takes over prescribing?

Accepted Answer

For most stable patients, no. You can transition entirely to GP-led care for routine continuation prescribing. You should still see a specialist if your symptoms become poorly controlled, you develop significant side effects, or you're considering a substantial change to your treatment plan. A good GP will refer you back when this is needed.

Question 3

What if my original psychiatrist has retired or closed their books?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common reasons patients seek out GP continuation prescribing. As long as you still have your original diagnosis report and a recent specialist letter outlining your treatment plan, a continuation-prescribing GP can take over your ongoing care. You don't need to find a new psychiatrist just to renew a script you've been on for years.

Question 4

Can a NSW GP do my initial ADHD diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Currently, initial diagnosis of ADHD in NSW is performed by psychiatrists or paediatricians. From mid-2026, GP-led diagnostic services are expected to become available under specific endorsement pathways. Join our diagnosis waitlist to be notified when bookings open.

Question 5

Is GP continuation prescribing covered by Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Medicare rebates apply for eligible GP consultations. Most dedicated continuation prescribing services are privately billed, with the rebate offsetting part of the consultation fee. Bulk-billing for this kind of structured 30-minute review is not financially viable for most practices given the time required.

Question 6

Can ADHD continuation prescribing be done via telehealth in NSW?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for adults. NSW Health permits ADHD continuation prescribing to be conducted entirely via telehealth for patients aged 18 and over. Under-18s require at least one in-person review per year. Learn more about our NSW telehealth service.

Question 7

How do I switch my ADHD prescribing from a psychiatrist to a GP?

Accepted Answer

Find a NSW GP who specifically offers ADHD continuation prescribing, gather your original diagnosis report and most recent specialist letter, and book an initial consultation. The GP will review your documentation, conduct an appropriate clinical review, apply for the necessary prescribing authority, and take over your routine care from that point forward. Book a continuation review with us.

GP prescribing

Can a GP Prescribe ADHD Medication in NSW? A Complete Guide for Patients

My ADHD GP