ADHD Assessment Pathway Step 3 of 3

GP prescribing and ongoing management

If ADHD is diagnosed by the psychiatrist, a detailed report will be sent to Dr Shaw outlining recommended treatment options. This step covers commencing medication and your long-term monitoring plan.

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GP consultation
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Specialist assessment
3
Treatment & management
Prescribing approval
~10
Approval timeline
days (occasionally longer)
Vic DoH
Issued by
Victorian Dept of Health
ℹ️ All investigations and requirements from Step 1 must be completed and satisfactory before approval can be granted. Once approved, you will be contacted to arrange a face-to-face consultation.
Follow-up consultation
Psychiatrist's recommendations will be reviewed
Medication options will be discussed in detail
A personalised treatment plan will be developed
Referrals issued for repeat investigations (blood tests, ECG, urine drug screen) required prior to your 6-month review
Costs and care planning
💡 We will look to lower your costs by placing you on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan if you are eligible. These fees apply every 3-6 months. So the gap payment (the amount you actually pay) reduces from $150 each time to $64 to $92. The higher ADHD fee is to cover the time taken applying for the permit.
With CDM plan (chronic disease management)
Consultation fee$220 - $248 (time dependent)
Medicare rebate$156.55
Out-of-pocket gap~$64 - $92
Without CDM plan
Consultation fee$193.90
Medicare rebate$43.90
Out-of-pocket gap$150

Fees are indicative and may vary slightly.

Medication options
First-line · Stimulant
Dexamfetamine
Also known as lisdexamfetamine
Methylphenidate
Also known as Ritalin, Concerta
Non-stimulant options
Atomoxetine
Alternative where stimulants unsuitable
Guanfacine
May assist with sleep-related side effects
Clonidine
Used in combination or standalone
ℹ️ Non-stimulant options may be used if stimulants are not suitable (e.g. cardiovascular concerns or substance use history), or in combination for sleep-related side effects.
Starting treatment
Authority to prescribe obtained
Prescribing authority is arranged during the follow-up consultation.
Start at a low dose
Treatment begins conservatively to minimise side effects and assess response.
Gradual dose titration
Dose is adjusted gradually — usually weekly. Follow-up during this phase is often brief and may be by phone.
Effective dose established
Prescriptions are then provided for up to 6 months at a time.
Ongoing monitoring

6-month review (face-to-face required)

Blood pressure and pulse checked
Repeat ECG and blood tests reviewed
If stable, further routine testing is generally not required until the end of the 2-year permit period
Urine drug screening may be required at any time if clinically indicated

Pathway complete

Following stabilisation of treatment, ongoing management continues through regular GP follow-up as needed. Dr Shaw will be your primary point of contact for prescribing, monitoring, and any concerns.

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