Shared Care & ADHD
Shared Care & ADHD: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD and require long-term medication, you may have heard about Shared Care Agreements (SCAs). But what exactly are they, and why do they matter?
A Shared Care Agreement allows your GP to continue prescribing ADHD medication that was initiated by a specialist.
In this guide, we will cover:
✔️ What shared care is and why it matters
✔️ Who qualifies for shared care
✔️ How to request an SCA
✔️ What to do if your GP refuses shared care
What is a Shared Care Agreement (SCA)?
A Shared Care Agreement (SCA) is an arrangement between your private ADHD specialist and your NHS GP. It allows your GP to take over prescribing and monitoring your ADHD medication, reducing the need for ongoing private treatment.
Most ADHD medications are controlled drugs, meaning that GPs cannot prescribe them unless they have specialist approval. An SCA enables GPs to legally and safely continue prescriptions within the NHS, making medication more affordable for patients.
💡 Example: You are diagnosed with ADHD by a private psychiatrist. Your medication is adjusted over three months. Once you are stable, your specialist writes to your GP asking them to take over prescribing through an SCA.
How Does Shared Care Work?
1️⃣ Step 1: Initial Diagnosis & Treatment Plan
You are assessed and diagnosed by an ADHD specialist.
The specialist prescribes ADHD medication and monitors you for 2-6 months.
2️⃣ Step 2: Requesting a Shared Care Agreement
Your specialist contacts your GP and requests shared care.
The GP reviews the request and decides whether to accept.
3️⃣ Step 3: GP Prescribing & Monitoring
Your GP takes over issuing prescriptions via the NHS.
You receive regular health checks (e.g., blood pressure, weight).
If issues arise, you may be referred back to the specialist.
Who Qualifies for Shared Care?
Not everyone is automatically eligible for shared care. You are more likely to qualify if:
✔️ You have been stable on ADHD medication for at least 3 months
✔️ Your specialist is willing to support shared care
✔️ Your GP agrees to take on prescribing
✔️ Your medication is within NHS prescribing guidelines
🚨 Some GPs refuse to enter Shared Care Agreements. If this happens, you may need to continue private prescribing or explore alternative GP practices.
FAQs About Shared Care
❓ Can my GP refuse shared care?
✅ Yes, GPs are not required to enter an SCA. Some may refuse due to funding, lack of ADHD expertise, or personal policy.
❓ Can shared care be reversed?
✅ Yes, if your condition becomes unstable, your care may be transferred back to a specialist.
❓ Does shared care cover all ADHD medications?
✅ Most ADHD medications are included, but some may require ongoing specialist supervision.
Next Steps
If you believe shared care is right for you:
📌 Talk to your GP about shared care BEFORE starting private ADHD treatment
📌 Ensure your specialist is willing to support an SCA
📌 Use our GP Request Letter to formally ask for shared care