Your Family Physcian's role in ADHD

Did you know that your family doctor can diagnose and prescribe medication for ADHD?

If you cannot afford a full assessment, then this path is definitely an option for you. However, your family doctor will not be able to give you a list of accommodations for your school or workplace. Your family doc will also not be able to diagnose any learning disabilities that may be appearing with your ADHD. These are the primary differences between a full assessment overseen by a Psychologist, and one completed by your family doctor. 

Regardless of where you are assessed, your family doctor plays a vital role in prescribing medication, early identification, and ongoing treatment. 

Unfortunately, some family doctors are not comfortable prescribing stimulant medication for their ADHD patients. If this is the case for you, and you do not have access to extended health benefits to have a full assessment completed by a Psychologist, then try requesting a referral to a Psychiatrist. This avenue would be covered by OHIP, and would provide you, or your child, with access to a doctor who will be well versed in prescribing medications for many psychological conditions, including ADHD. There may be a long wait time for treatment, so be aware that this path will take some time.

Children with ADHD are at least twice as likely as their peers to access medical care regularly in the years before their diagnosis. Learn more about this in the ADDitude Magazine article here. These children may be experiencing more accidents or more illnesses related to their potential ADHD. Often, undiagnosed children undergo more stress related to their inability to self-regulate and achieve the expectations of their parents, siblings, peers, or teachers. Their increased stress manifests as headaches, stomachaches, and bodily pain. Other mental health issues can arise from or be present with undiagnosed ADHD. 

If you are lucky enough to have a family doctor, or behavioural pediatrician who understands both ADHD and ADHD medication, you have a strong ally in managing the disorder. Talk to them about what you, or your child are experiencing. They will be able to offer some solutions. Your doctor, your school or workplace, your ADHD Coach, and your Psychiatrist or Psychologist should be working together to ensure your success.