ADHD Prescribing in General Practice: Understanding Your Options
Changes to ADHD prescribing in NSW are making it easier for eligible patients to access ongoing medication through their GP.
At East Ryde Doctors, we support Dr Lily Foster and Dr Donna Lau, who consult from the practice and offer ADHD continuation prescribing for eligible patients.
These changes aim to improve access to ADHD care, reduce the need for repeated specialist appointments and support greater continuity of care.
What is ADHD continuation prescribing?
Since 1 September 2025, appropriately trained and authorised GPs in NSW have been able to continue prescribing certain ADHD stimulant medications for eligible patients aged six years and older.
Patients who have already been diagnosed with ADHD and are stable on their medication may be able to access ongoing prescriptions through an authorised GP, rather than returning to their specialist for every prescription.
Medications covered include:
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
Dexamfetamine
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible for continuation prescribing if you:
Are aged six years or older.
Have an established ADHD diagnosis.
Are stable on your current prescribed medication.
Have documentation confirming your diagnosis and treatment history.
Meet the relevant NSW Health prescribing requirements.
Your GP will assess your individual circumstances before determining whether continuation prescribing is appropriate.
Understanding the different ADHD prescribing pathways
There are several pathways available for ADHD assessment, treatment and ongoing medication management in NSW.
1. Continuation prescribing through an authorised GP
For patients who have already been diagnosed with ADHD and are stable on their medication.
An authorised GP can provide ongoing stimulant prescriptions and make certain minor medication adjustments where clinically appropriate and permitted.
This is the service available through Dr Lily Foster and Dr Donna Lau, who consult at East Ryde Doctors.
2. Specialist assessment and treatment
Patients seeking an initial ADHD diagnosis or commencement of medication may be referred to an appropriately qualified specialist, such as a psychiatrist or paediatrician.
Once treatment is established and stable, eligible patients may be able to transition to continuation prescribing with an authorised GP.
3. Specialist and GP co-management
Some patients may receive ongoing ADHD care through a formal arrangement between their specialist and GP.
This pathway allows treatment to be coordinated between healthcare providers and may require individual prescribing approval from NSW Health.
4. ADHD diagnosis and treatment through an endorsed GP
NSW Health is also expanding access to specially trained and authorised GPs who can initiate stimulant medication for newly diagnosed patients.
This is a separate prescribing pathway requiring additional training and authorisation.
Not all GPs offer this service, and we understanding the Government is yet to finalise the register for these doctors.
ADHD continuation prescribing at East Ryde Doctors
Dr Lily Foster and Dr Donna Lau offer ADHD continuation prescribing for eligible patients.
Before your appointment, you may be asked to provide:
Your original ADHD diagnostic assessment or specialist report.
A recent letter from your treating specialist, where available.
Details of your current medication and dosage.
Relevant medical and treatment history.
Ongoing appointments are required to monitor your treatment, medication effectiveness and any potential side effects.
How do I arrange an appointment?
If you have an existing ADHD diagnosis and would like to explore continuation prescribing, please contact East Ryde Doctors to discuss the appropriate appointment and documentation requirements.
Our reception team can assist you with arranging an appointment with Dr Lily Foster or Dr Donna Lau.
Please note: Continuation prescribing is subject to eligibility, clinical assessment and NSW Health prescribing requirements. An appointment does not guarantee that a prescription will be issued.
Further information
For additional information about ADHD care and prescribing changes in NSW, visit:
