Purpose:
This policy outlines the prescribing responsibilities of the practice in relation to ADHD
medication requests originating from private providers. It ensures safe, equitable, and
compliant care in accordance with NHS commissioning frameworks and clinical governance
standards.
Scope:
This policy applies to all clinical and administrative staff involved in the management of
ADHD-related prescribing and patient communications.
Policy Overview:
The practice is committed to delivering high-quality care within the parameters of NHS
commissioning. In accordance with NHS England’s shared care guidance and our local
Integrated Care Board (ICB) protocols, the practice does not enter into shared care
arrangements for ADHD medication initiated by private providers.
Prescribing responsibilities for ADHD medication will only be assumed by the practice under
the following conditions:
- The patient has been titrated and stabilised by an NHS-commissioned specialist service.
- A formal shared care agreement is in place between the NHS specialist and the practice.
- The arrangement is supported by appropriate clinical governance, data sharing protocols,
and resourcing.
Rationale:
This position is underpinned by the need to: - Ensure clinical safety and continuity of care.
- Comply with NHS commissioning boundaries and medicines optimisation frameworks.
- Avoid the transfer of prescribing responsibility without adequate oversight or integration
with NHS systems.
Patient Communication Guidance:
Patients who have received a diagnosis and treatment plan from a private provider should
be advised that: - The practice is not commissioned to prescribe ADHD medication under private shared care
protocols. - They may pursue a referral to an NHS ADHD service, such as Psychiatry UK under the Right
to Choose scheme, which facilitates access to NHS-funded specialist care. - The practice is happy to support such referrals and provide guidance on accessing NHS
pathways