ADHD Assessment Pathway
Step 2 of 3
Specialist assessment
Following your initial GP consultation, you will be referred to a psychiatrist for formal ADHD assessment. Dr Shaw will coordinate this referral on your behalf.
Referral process
Dr Shaw will provide a referral to an appropriate psychiatrist or psychiatric clinic.
Our reception team can send this directly to the clinic on your behalf.
The referral will request a comprehensive psychiatric assessment under Medicare Item 291.
Costs
Psychiatrist fee
$900 – $1,200
Medicare rebate (Item 291)
~$450
Estimated out-of-pocket
~$450 – $750
These figures are indicative and may vary between clinics.
Appointment timing
Clinic response
1–2 weeks
Appointment availability
2–8 weeks
What the assessment involves
During the assessment
Detailed clinical interview (60–90 minutes)
Standardised questionnaires and rating scales
Review of past school, workplace, or psychological reports
Collateral history where available
Helpful documents to provide
School reports
Workplace assessments
Psychologist reports
Please provide these to the clinic where possible — they help the psychiatrist make a thorough assessment.
Prescribing pathway
GP-led prescribing
Many psychiatric clinics focus on assessment and diagnosis, with ongoing prescribing managed through your GP. Dr Shaw will request, within the referral, approval to obtain a prescribing permit if ADHD is diagnosed.
Ongoing prescribing via GP
Fewer specialist visits
More cost-effective
Prescribing permit
The permit typically lasts 2 years, after which a psychiatrist review is required to renew.
A fee of approximately $70 may apply for the time taken by our clinic to apply for the permit.
This fee may be waived if you are eligible for a GP Chronic Disease Management Plan.