Do you need a GP referral for an adult ADHD assessment in Ireland?

Through the HSE: a GP referral is the first step

The HSE route starts with your GP. Your GP refers you to your local Community Adult Mental Health Team, based on your home address. That team screens for possible ADHD and, if the screen is positive, refers you on to the specialist adult ADHD service.

To be seen, the HSE says you need to be 18 or over, live within the team's catchment area, and have moderate to severe ADHD symptoms that affect at least two areas of life, such as work or study, relationships, or managing money. Adult ADHD teams are still being set up, so not every area has one yet.

Waits can be long. In September 2024 TheJournal.ie reported waits of up to four years in Wicklow and south Dublin, where new GP referrals were paused for a time.

Why a GP letter can still help

Your GP holds your medical history, including physical health conditions and medicines, which a clinician may need when assessing you. If medication is considered after a diagnosis, your GP may also be involved in ongoing prescriptions and check-ups, so it helps to keep them informed from the start.

What to ask your GP to include

• Why you are asking for an assessment, in your own words.
• Your relevant medical history and any current medicines.
• Any past mental health care or diagnoses.
• Anything from childhood or school that may be relevant, if you have it.

Does the GP visit cost anything?

Unless you have a medical card or GP visit card, you will usually pay for the GP visit. Fees paid to doctors can usually be claimed under health expenses relief at the standard rate of 20%, through Revenue's myAccount.

For the full picture of waits, costs and what happens after diagnosis, read our guide to adult ADHD assessment in Ireland.